Isaac Watts (1674-1748) wrote the lyrics of 'There is a land of pure delight' and is known as the 'Father of English Hymnody'. Watts was for the English hymn as Ambrose was for the medieval Latin hymn and what Martin Luther was for the German chorale. He wrote about 750 songs and some of them survide the ravahes of time. (Joy To The World When I survey the wondrous cross I sing the Mighty Power of God) 'There is a Land of Pure Delight' is usually in English-speaking areas sung on Luther Orlando Emerson's melody ('Ascription'). Here is used a traditional English melody ('Mendip'). There is a land of pure delight Wheresaints immortal Reign. Infinite day excludes the night And pleasures banish pain.

Les Anges dans nos campagnes-The title of this clever arrangement reveals the Christmas song it is based on. The melody can be traced back to a French folksong from the 18th century which is now known around the world. In France it is called Les anges dans nos campagnes in Germany it is most widely known as Engel auf den Feldern singen and in England it was originally called Angels From the Realms of Glory but it often known as Angels We Have Heard on High. Everyone will rejoice upon hearing the ‘Gloria in excelsis Deo’ refrain!

Five Variations on the 'Brugg Song'-Kaleidoscope is a set of five variations of on the ‘Brugger Lied’ (Brugg Song) which is the traditional song of the town of Brugg. The lyrics tell of the geography people and traditions of this charming and historic town which is situated in the north of Switzerland near to the German border about halfway between Basel and Zurich.Each variation is based on tiny extracts of the theme the whole piece therefore resembling the effect of a kaleidoscope which juxtaposes small fragments of colour in a constantly changing pattern.

The German Christmas song Von Himmel hoch O Englein kommt is one of the oldest known German carols with the earliest versions also known as Susani going back to the 14th century. This exceptional arrangement by Jan de Haan works extremely well for brass band and will make an ideal work for any Christmas concert.

Dreaming of love. This is the theme of the folksong on which the composition was based. Its characteristic melody inspired Jacob de Haan to this instrumental romance with a transparent structure consisting of an introduction the folk-melody a development of the theme the folk-melody accompanied by ornamental triplets followed by the final bars.