A Festival of Lessons and Carols

Album Description

Experience the timeless tradition of Christmas with Sir David Willcocks and The Choir of King's College, Cambridge in "A Festival of Lessons and Carols." This enchanting album, released on December 3, 2023, under the Digital Gramophone label, is a cherished collection of choral performances that beautifully blend sacred lessons with beloved carols. Spanning 51 minutes, this album is a perfect blend of choral mastery and festive spirit, making it an ideal addition to your holiday playlist.

The album begins with a spoken introduction, followed by the iconic "Processional Hymn: Once In Royal David’s City." It then weaves together nine lessons from the Bible with nine carols, each carefully selected to complement the narrative of the Christmas story. From the traditional "Adam lay ybounden" to the joyous "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," every track is performed with the precision and passion that Sir David Willcocks is renowned for.

Sir David Willcocks, a distinguished British choral conductor, organist, composer, and music administrator, brings his extensive experience and deep understanding of choral music to this album. His arrangements and direction elevate each piece, creating a cohesive and captivating listening experience. Whether you're a long-time fan of choral music or new to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding journey through the Christmas season.

The album features a mix of traditional carols and lesser-known gems, all arranged with the signature elegance of Sir David Willcocks. Highlights include "I Saw Three Ships," "Gabriel’s Message," and "In Dulci Jubilo," each performed with the clarity and warmth that The Choir of King's College, Cambridge is famous for. The album concludes with the triumphant "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," leaving you with a sense of peace and joy.

"A Festival of Lessons and Carols" is not just an album; it's a celebration of the Christmas season, a testament to the enduring power of choral music, and a tribute to the legacy of Sir David Willcocks. Whether you're listening alone or with loved ones, this album is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

December 3, 2023

2023 DigitalGramophone.com

About Sir David Willcocks

Sir David Willcocks was a beloved and influential figure in British choral music, renowned for his exceptional talent as a conductor, organist, and composer. Born in Cornwall in 1919, Willcocks' career spanned over six decades, during which he made an indelible mark on the musical landscape. He is perhaps best known for his tenure as the director of the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, from 1957 to 1974, where he transformed a group of young choristers into one of the world's most celebrated choirs. His annual performances of the Nine Lessons and Carols became a cherished tradition, and his arrangements and descants for these services are still widely performed and beloved today. Willcocks' contributions to choral music extend far beyond King's College; he also served as the director of the Royal College of Music in London and the musical director of the Bach Choir for 38 years. His extraordinary memory and musical prowess allowed him to conduct complex works from memory, a testament to his deep understanding and passion for music. Willcocks' legacy as a choral conductor, composer, and educator continues to inspire and influence musicians and music lovers alike.