A Christmas Fantasia

This descriptive festive work by Andrew Wainwright was commissioned by Elgin Symphony Orchestra and expertly fuses together several much loved carols. The piece opens with a rather mysterious rendition of Noël Nouvelet, a French carol that dates back to the 16th century. There are references to God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen in this opening section, with its familiar melody and haunting harmonies. A lively 6/8 section ensues which features A Great and Mighty Wonder in a stirring setting of the traditional English carol, before a beautifully reflective treatment of The Infant King. The final section begins with the lively Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day, which moves into a majestic finale which sees the carols Of the Father’s Heart Begotten and A Great and Mighty Wonder juxtaposed with each other. A dramatic coda brings the work to a grandiose and glorious conclusion.