SKU: LO.99-3011L

UPC: 000308132090.

The story of faith is often reflected as a journey from darkness to light. The Old Testament speaks of Israel living in bondage and darkness, awaiting the light of the promised Messiah, and His coming is punctuated by light every step of the way: a bright angelic host proclaiming the news to Judean shepherds keeping watch over their flocks; a shining star inviting Magi from afar to the young Christ-child in an act of worship and praise. The book of John refers to Jesus as the light of all people (Jn 1:4). Jesus even referred to Himself as the light of the world (Jn 8:12). It is this imagery of light that provides the unifying thread for Behold the Star! This extended work for choir, narrators, and congregation is a blend of original and familiar carols. It may be performed in a single worship experience or in smaller segments over the weeks leading to Christmas. Behold the Star! is an inspirational reminder that Jesus, the light of the world, has indeed come!

SKU: SU.80101470

Two Folk Songs (2011) are settings of traditional American folk songs, primarily associated with Appalachia. In keeping with the nature of the source material (and how it is performed in folk contexts), the settings are very straightforward. Every Night, When the Sun Goes Down is song with lyrics that focus on the transcendent peace that comes from faith, overcoming sorrow and death. Sourwood Mountain is a jubilant song with a nonsense refrain (hey-ho diddle-um day). The organ setting evokes the spirit of the banjo. As often happens in a traditional folk band, the melody is elaborated in a more virtuosic fashion on each repetition. Instrumentation: Organ Duration: 6' Composed: 2011 Published by: Zimbel Press.

SKU: ST.W226

ISBN 9790220223235.

Included in the Oxford Book of Ballads and ascribed to an anonymous 15th-century author, the tale of Joly Joly Wat the shepherd who offers the infant Christ his 'pipe, skirt, tarbox and scripe' is among the best-loved of traditional Christmas verses. Its musical reference offers an obvious attraction to composers, and in Bryan Kelly's new setting a sprightly ritornello embellished with trills is the musical counterpart to the young herdsman's musical instrument on which 'he made such joy.'

Written for Simon Williams and the Harrow Choral Society, Joly Joly Wat brings a fresh and lively note to seasonal choral concerts. The vocal writing is clear and straightforward, with occasional division of the sopranos, and an incisive and syncopated style that matches the shepherd-boy's haste to leave his flock and his faithful dog keeping his 'shepe fro ye corn' in order to visit the new-born Jesus.