O Bethlehem: Christmas Anthems for 2024 Wednesday, October 23, 2024
recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist
O Bethlehem by Christin Kieckhafer, SATB with piano and optional cello
This new music for the “O Little Town of Bethlehem” text moves from dark silence to bright hope and eventual abiding peace, as it traces the coming of Emmanuel. Optional cello part included in choral score.
Gloria in Excelsis Deo! arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This joyous Christmas anthem is based upon the carol tune BRING A TORCH paired with wonderful new lyrics. After two verses, the hymn tune HYFRYDOL enters to provide contrast and a key change before the carol returns as the finale. The choral texture nicely alternates unison with four-part vocals, and the optional orchestration adds to the celebration.
Away in a Manger (Forever Amen) arr. Molly Ijames, SATB with piano and optional 2 C instruments
Phil Wickham’s tender setting of this carol is arranged here for choir by Molly Ijames. A gentle instrumental motif unifies the steady growth between stanzas, and optional alternate lyrics for stanzas 2-3 provide opportunity for an even richer worship moment. Add optional 1-2 C instruments for even more color and impact.
Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song) arr. Lloyd Larson, 2-part mixed with piano and optional orchestra & handbells
The essence of Christmas is dramatically captured in this enthralling setting of Amy Grant’s contemporary Christmas classic. The rich harmonies and supportive accompaniment will make this an inspirational addition to Christmas choral concerts or worship services. Now available in Two-Part Mixed.
Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This combination of the French carol, Lloyd Larson’s eminently singable choral writing, and a touch of Copland-esque style, will provide much-needed energy and joy without extra rehearsal time.
Calypso Gloria arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional percussion
Incorporating the Traditional West Indian Spiritual, “The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy,” and the Traditional French Carol, GLORIA, this lively, Christmas calypso is sure be a highlight of many a holiday program. An optional percussion part is provided and can be played throughout.
The Christmas Gift arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
Brightly dancing, “The Christmas Gift” shines with joy! Celebrating God’s Greatest Gift through the creative use of the beloved Shaker Tune “Simple Gifts” blended with the chorus of a familiar carol, here’s an arrangement that is not only highly creative and delightful, but easily prepared. The optional children’s choir will enrich the moment.
Child of Hope, Child of Peace by Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This gentle lullaby sings of the coming of Christ in a lowly manger with appropriate awe, hope, and love. With the addition of the beloved carol “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly” (sung by an optional children’s choir), this anthem is a warm and inviting offering perfect of Christmas Eve or any time during the Christmas season.
Angels from the Realms of Glory arr. Bernard Sexton, SATB with piano
This exuberant original musical setting of the Christmas poem by James Montgomery is inspired by the flight of heavenly angels and their joyous proclamation of the Savior’s birth. The spirited 7/8 meter matches the joyous text. Treble voices open, followed by men’s voices on verse two, and full choir to close the final two verses – all flying above the energetic accompaniment.
Sing Your Praise to God on High! arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
This thrilling medley arrangement by master composer Lloyd Larson will be a welcome addition to any Christmas worship service or concert. Beginning and ending with an expansive fanfare, the anthem deftly takes us through “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks,” “On Christmas Night All Christians Sing,” and “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing.” The congregation is given an opportunity to join the choir in the final carol, and an exciting orchestration by Ed Hogan rounds out the offering.
Good Christian Men, Rejoice arr. Molly Ijames, SATB with piano
Molly Ijames’s adaptation of this beloved carol for SATB choirs features creative vocal layering, traditional four-part sonorities, and an energetic piano accompaniment that is a joy to play. This addition to your ensemble’s repertoire will find a welcome place in worship services and concerts alike.
How Quietly arr. Joel Raney, SSA with piano and optional orchestra & handbells
This pairing of an original composition with a Christmas classic affords a unique way to present “Away in a Manger” during the holiday season. The flowing piano accompaniment provides a lush underpinning for this re-telling of the night Christ was born.
Jesus, Oh What a Wonderful Child arr. Lloyd Larson, SSA with piano
This spirited gospel celebration of the birth of Jesus from Lloyd Larson is a top-seller in the Hope choral catalog. The rhythm track is sensational and highly recommended. Bursting with energy, this makes an ideal seasonal selection for worship services and concerts in both churches and schools.
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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.