Christ-mass: explanation

The recently deceased British composer and conductor James Whitbourn (1963-2024) was described by The Observer as "a truly original voice in British choral music". His (choral) works are performed worldwide and lauded for their accessible style. One of his best-known compositions is the oratorio Annelies, a large-scale work based on Anne Frank's diary. It earned Whitbourn a Grammy for Best Choral Performance. Equally moving is his Son of God Mass, in which he combines heavenly voice work with the warm colour of the soprano saxophone, merging contemporary sounds with ancient liturgical practices. And, as always, traditional carols resound at the end of this concert.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas!