Jean Anne Shafferman (Composer)
Anna Laura Page (Composer)
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.
Suite 1: The Promise of Hope
Suite 1: Carols of Hope
Suite 2: The Promise of Peace
Suite 2: Carols of Peace
Suite 3: The Promise of Joy
Suite 3: Carols of Joy
Suite 4: The Promise of Love
Suite 4: Carols of Love
Suite 5: The Promise of Christ
Suite 5: Carols of Christ
