Christmastide

SKU: GI.G-11040

English. Text Source: Lectionary for Mass

SKU: GI.G-8416

UPC: 785147841609. English. Text Source: Christopher Smart, 1722-1771, alt. Text by Christopher Smart.

Taken from Christopher Smart’s intriguing poem “The Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” this four-part a cappella anthem for Christmas Eve and Christmastide sits comfortably in the tessitura for each voice part throughout plus a section where the tenors are at the top of their range. The piece also offers an alternative SSAA arrangement of this latter section. Optional SSAA voices.

SKU: GI.G-5918

English, Latin. Text Source: Matthew 2:16-18, Jeremiah 31:15. Text by Sylvia Dunstan. Scripture: Matthew 2:16–18, Jeremiah 31:15.

Sylvia Dunstan’s pointed, unsettling words resound: “God, hear the blood crying out from the ground.” They find balance in O’Brien’s sensitive music for two solo voices and choir. The “miserere nobis” underpinning throughout provides a beautiful, comforting mantra. A good piece to consider not only for Christmastide but also for the unborn or the funeral of a child. 

Text by Sylvia Dunstan.

SKU: GI.G-8829

UPC: 785147882909. English. Text Source: English carol, 17th c., alt.

Set in free meter, this early seventeenth-century English carol has a regal sound that builds to a triumphant end. For SATB voices and optional timbrel, this piece develops in intensity throughout using a variety of harmonic textures that add interest and a distinctive quality. The memorable refrain heralds the wondrous announcement of Christ’s birth. This work can be used throughout Christmastide. The ad lib Timbrel part is optional.

SKU: GI.G-8340

UPC: 785147834007. English. Text source: Trad. English carol.

The traditional English carol tune is embellished with occasional quotes of the SUSSEX CAROL. This bright and joyful setting for Christmastide establishes the melody in unison women’s voices, then dividing into two parts before developing further into a four-part, SATB voicing by the end of the first verse. Throughout the piece, the textures continue to vary, complementing the playful dance of the quick 6/8 rhythms, instilling a sense of wonder and delight.

SKU: GI.G-8310

UPC: 785147831006. English. Text by Chris de Silva.

An ethereal gentleness starts this piece that briefly recounts the story of the shepherds and the Magi. Choral writing with a dream-like quality supports the soloist. This is a great choice for that singer in your choir who can maintain a beautiful line, but perhaps does not possess a large range—optional notes are indicated at the end, when the melody may go a bit high for some. For cantor or soloist. 2 octaves Handbells or Handchimes.

SKU: GI.G-10446

UPC: 785147044611. English. Text Source: Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht; Translation: John F. Young. Text by Joseph Mohr.

SKU: GI.G-4272

Text by J. Michael Joncas.

SKU: GI.G-10968

English. Text Source: Christmas Eve, 1893, Christina Rossetti, 1830&ndash,1894. Text by Christina Rossetti.

SKU: GI.G-2678

English.

Percussion is for Triangle, Tambourine, and small Drum. 11 handbells.

SKU: GI.G-7393

UPC: 785147739302. English. Text by Isaac Watts.

This Baroque-style setting of the quintessential Christmas text may present a bit of a challenge to some keyboardists, but the spirit of the piece is well worth the effort! Rather than eclipse the traditional pairing of ANTIOCH and “Joy to the World,” both versions could be used in the same worship service.

SKU: GI.G-3468