A refreshing setting of a medieval Christmas carol, Christopher Maxim continues his series of motets for the worship service and concert. Sprightly "alleluias" begin and end each verse, with the Latin text
This sophisticated motet is reminiscent of the Renaissance, with its elegant polyphony and imaginative changes of texture. Based on the 11th century Marian antiphon for Advent, Samuel Backman has also
Cooman's lovely Marian motet is sung in Latin (a cappella) and has varied textures based on the text. Homophony, imitative writing, and divisi all contribute to underlining the text, appropriate for Marian
With text from a traditional Polish carol, the three verses of this a cappella anthem depict the story of Christmas eve. A jubilant, quick-paced response highlights the middle of each verse.
Another new Christmas carol from Martin Leadbetter, with poetry by Robert Southwell, each verse is punctuated with a concluding, energetic "Nowell".
The refrain of “Hodie” begins this anthem and punctuates each verse changing the meter from 4/4 to 6/8 and giving a joyful, upbeat and dance-like spirit.