In England, carols initially developed as communal songs sung by 'wassailers' going from house to house during celebrations like Harvest tide and Christmas, only later becoming associated with church and Christmas.
Recording & Production
This album features several world première recordings, including Giles Swayne's arrangement of the medieval Coventry Carol and Graham Ross's setting of the 15th-century text Lullay, my liking.
Instruments
The album features a chamber organ by Henk Klop (Garderen, Holland, NL, 2008), supplied and tuned to 1/6' meantone by Keith McGowan, and a theorbo by Martin Haycock (Charlton, Sussex, UK, 1995) after Italian models.
Performer Biography
The Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, founded in 1971, is an internationally recognized university choral group that performs services three times a week and maintains an active schedule of recordings, broadcasts, and tours.
Historical Context
Carols, as we know them, date back to the 13th century, originating as popular Christmas songs in native languages, particularly in Italy under the influence of St. Francis of Assisi.
Performer Biography
Graham Ross, the director of the Choir of Clare College, Cambridge and co-founder of The Dmitri Ensemble, made his BBC Proms and Glyndebourne débuts at the age of 25.
