Publisher's Synopsis
The journey from Advent to Christmas is filled with vivid images of beloved traditions: the lighting of candles and Christmas trees as the light of Christ glows with increasing intensity; decorations of evergreens, symbols of the promise of rebirth; the emergence of stars atop the trees to guide the pilgrim journey; the presentation of gifts in celebration of God's great gift to us all. Throughout the centuries, believers have sung carols that celebrate these traditions, and A Garland of Carols combines these elements. It includes five suites, one for each Sunday in Advent and a fifth for Christmas Eve. Each includes an opening carol for choir and a closing medley for choir and optional congregation, as well as narratives for candle-lighting and inspired stories and scriptures for that suite's theme. The flexible choral texture makes it ideal as a one-rehearsal program for larger choirs or as an easily rehearsed program for smaller ensembles.
