programme notes: Ceremony of Carols
A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten became a Christmas classic from the moment of its 1942 premiere — read the programme note by Aurélie Walschaert
Each year, in the darkest days of the season, we gather to bring light into the shadows—to share warmth, affection, and the joy of being together with friends and family, guided by centuries-old traditions. The Vlaams Radiokoor has created its own tradition: a heartwarming concert that blends classical works, cherished carols, and unexpected discoveries—little vocal Christmas gifts to be shared.
A true favourite is Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols. Composed in 1942, the cycle weaves together Gregorian chant and traditional English carols with grace and depth, creating a glowing tribute to the British choral heritage.
That deep-rooted tradition is also honoured by Holst, Howells, and Rutter, with a selection of refined, expressive works. And as is tradition, we close with some Christmas carols:
“May the spirit of Christmas fill your heart and home!”
programme
Benjamin Britten
A Ceremony of Carols
traditional
Paraphrase on ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ (harp solo) (arr. Carlos Salzedo)
Benjamin Britten
A Hymn to the Virgin
Gustav Holst
In the Bleak Midwinter
traditional
Paraphrase on ‘Greensleeves’ (harp solo) (arr. Carlos Salzedo)
Christmas Carols
I Wonder as I Wander (arr. Andrew Carter)
I Saw Three Ships (arr. David Willcocks)
The Holly and the Ivy (arr. John Rutter)
John Rutter
There is a flower
Claude Debussy
Arabesque No. 1 (harp solo)
Herbert Howells
A Spotless Rose
Christmas Carols
The Twelve Days of Christmas (arr. Ian Humphris)
CONCERT WITHOUT INTERMISSION (70')
with the support of Beside Tax Shelter and the Belgian Tax Shelter
vocal fabric video
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practical
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📍 HEILIG HART PAROCHIEKERK
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