Sunday 21 December 2025 | 15:00 |
Britten, Benjamin (1913-1976) | A Ceremony of Carols, Op.28 | |
Britten, Benjamin (1913-1976) | Hymn to the Virgin | |
Holst, Gustav (1874-1934) | In the Bleak Midwinter (arr. Ola Gjeilo) | |
Rutter, Sir John (b. 1945) | There is a flower | |
Howells, Herbert (1892-1983) | A Spotless Rose | |
Tchaikovsky, Pyotr Ilyich (1840-1893) | The Nutcracker, Op.71: Waltz of the Flowers | |
Traditional | O Little Town of Bethlehem (arr. Carlos Salzedo) | |
Traditional | Greensleeves (arr. Carlos Salzedo) | |
Traditional | I wonder as I wander (arr. Andrew Carter) | |
Traditional | I Saw Three Ships (arr. David Willcocks) | |
Traditional | The Holly and the Ivy (arr. John Rutter) | |
Traditional | The 12 Days of Christmas (arr. Ian Humphris) |
Benjamin Goodson | Conductor |
Flemish Radio Choir |
Each year, in the darkest days of the season, we gather to bring light into the shadows—to share warmth, affection, and the joy of being together with friends and family, guided by centuries-old traditions. The Vlaams Radiokoor has created its own tradition: a heartwarming concert that blends classical works, cherished carols, and unexpected discoveries—little vocal Christmas gifts to be shared.
A true favourite is Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols. Composed in 1942, the cycle weaves together Gregorian chant and traditional English carols with grace and depth, creating a glowing tribute to the British choral heritage.
That deep-rooted tradition is also honoured by Holst, Howells, and Rutter, with a selection of refined, expressive works. And as is tradition, we close with some Christmas carols:
“May the spirit of Christmas fill your heart and home!”
