Chilcott's most extensive foray into Christmas repertoire so far came as a commission for the Three Choirs Festival . . . As with the earlier Passion, the congregational hymns are a particular highlight. * Jason Overall, Journal of the Association of Anglican Musicians, November 19 * Chilcott's recitative is not Bachian, and yet is both fluent and varied â and utterly new . . . Four congregational hymns are fitted in to his own fresh descanted tunes; the use particularly of harp (and flute) is quite magical, lending warm colour to the mezzo soloist, while the bass intones Chilcott's marvellously expressive treatment of the Nunc Dimittis. "Where is the babe but lately sprung? Lies he the lily-banks among" (Herrick) gives some idea of the enchanting text . . . The work, cheerfully volatile, should serve enthusiastic choirs well in the future. * Roderic Dunnett, www.churchtimes.co.uk, August 2019 * I LOVED THIS MUSIC! It is already published by Oxford University Press and I predict it is going to be a classic. Choral directors, take note! * Katherine Crosier, insanity.blogs.lchwelcome.org, August 2019 * An important element in Bob Chilcott's new work, acting as structural pillars, as it were, is the inclusion of number of hymns in which the audience/congregation is encouraged to join. Participation in these hymns draws the listener in, just as the chorales do in Bach's Passions . . . These hymn tunes are newly minted by Chilcott and all of them are eminently singable . . . As you might expect from this composer, the music is highly attractive. The choral writing is effective and good, as is the instrumental accompaniment . . . The tenor soloist, as the Evangelist, is at the centre of the work . . . Bob Chilcott has done it again, composing an attractive and sincere piece which will surely appeal to audiences and choirs alike. I am sure it won't be long before other choirs are pressing their conductors to take it up. * John Quinn, seenandheard-international.com, August 2019 *
