An alternative choral Christmas

An Armenian miniature painting of the nativity, c.1232.

By Hugh Morris, 21 December 2022

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“Considered internationally, Britain’s choral tradition is one tradition among many”

Bachtrack, 22nd January

The Order of Princess Olha was bestowed on her on Ukraine's Day of Unity by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Christmas gifts for music, opera and dance lovers in 2025

Bachtrack, 5th December

What do you buy for the culture lover in your life who seems to have everything? Here are some music and dance-related gifts that Bachtrack staff are giving or hoping to receive for Christmas this year.

EMCY connects young musicians together amid a disrupted Europe

Bachtrack, 9th July

A network of around 50 classical music competitions, EMCY has also been mounting unusual performance projects, which respond to the challenges posed by Coronavirus and the war in Ukraine.

Igniting the Singing Revolution: the music of Veljo Tormis

Simon Cummings, 12th March

One of the strongest advocates for traditional Estonian folksong, or regilaul, Veljo Tormis’ unique music is celebrated this year with a worldwide singing contest.

Finding the complete piano player: Illia Ovcharenko

Cameron Kelsall, 27th December

The young Ukrainian pianist talks about winning the Honens International Piano Competition, his love for Ukrainian music, and being part of the Classeek Ambassador programme.

The hidden folk history of Christmas carols

Stephen Pritchard, 12th December

Some of the most familiar Christmas carols have melodies derived from folksong – which might have been lost altogether if not preserved in the early 20th century.

Hugh Morris

Hugh is a freelance writer and composer based in Manchester. He contributes to a range of publications in the UK and US, including GRAMMY, Jazzwise, Reverb, The Sampler, The Calvert Journal and The Big Issue across music, politics and society. He also works for London-based jazz label Whirlwind Recordings, and for Manchester music charity Olympias Music Foundation.

Jul, jul, strålande jul! An alternative choral Christmas