Credits:

BEDFORD, ECO, TALLIS CO, ETC

Description:

First, Id like to introduce the relatively little-known The Nativity of Christ. Surprisingly, this work was composed before the composer turned 20; it is an unaccompanied mixed-voice choral piece that leads into The Child Is Born, composed the following year. This work, which is full of flashes of inspiration, received its world premiere 15 years after the composers death. St. Nicholas, which depicts the figure said to be the model for Santa Claus, features a tenor solo, mixed chorus, a same-voice choir, two pianists, an organ, percussion, and a string ensemble. With the exception of the tenor soloist, the principal percussionist, and the principal players in each string section, the piece was conceived with amateur performers in mind. Brittens genius in masterfully handling this unique instrumental arrangement is a highlight. Psalm 150 is performed by a boys choir. This is the