13 December - An English Christmas

Christ Church Cathedral Choir, St John's, Smith Square, London, SW1P 3HA, 7.30pm

The world-famous Choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford performed a programme of traditional carols interspersed with Christmas music by some of the greatest and best-loved English composers. Last year, we sold out of tickets for this extraordinary evening.

The concert was introduced by regular collaborator and friend of the Choir, composer Howard Goodall, who is known not only as one of our most respected British composers, but also to television viewers and listeners to his regular programme on Classic FM.

After the concert, canapes and drinks were served at a private reception in the Footstall Restaurant in the crypt from 9pm onwards, kindly sponsored by an Old Member.

Stephen Darlington director
Ben Sheen piano
Michael Heighway piano

Programme included:

Walton    Make we joy; King Herod
Howells    A spotless rose
Vaughan Williams    Fantasia on Greensleeves (piano duet);
We’ve been a while a-wandering
Warlock    As dew in Aprylle; Bethlehem Down
Britten    Hymn to the Virgin
Holst arr. York    Jupiter The Planets (piano duet)
Pettman    Gabriel’s message
Jake Thackray arr. Goodall    Remember Bethlehem
Rutter    What sweeter music
Gardner    Tomorrow shall be my dancing day

"This choir achieved a soaring serenity from the moment they opened their mouths."

Bermuda Festival Review

"Under Darlington's direction, they sing...with confidence and warmth." 

Sunday Times

"To hear a choir like this is to hear a quality of musicianship with no equal anywhere in the world."

Independent on Sunday