The Guildford Cathedral Choir – Christmas Carols From Guildford Cathedral (1969 UK Press Reissue)

The Guildford Cathedral Choir – Christmas Carols From Guildford Cathedral

A beautiful collection of traditional Christmas carols performed by The Guildford Cathedral Choir, Christmas Carols From Guildford Cathedral captures the timeless atmosphere and rich musical heritage of the English cathedral choral tradition.

Featuring twelve much-loved Christmas favourites, this seasonal recording brings together familiar hymns and carols in the distinctive setting of cathedral choir singing. From the ceremonial opening of "Once In Royal David's City" to the uplifting finale of "O Come, All Ye Faithful", the programme celebrates the enduring appeal of traditional Christmas music.

The Guildford Cathedral Choir has a distinguished place in English church music, and this recording features the choir under the direction of Barry Rose, with Gavin Williams on organ. Rose was an important figure in British cathedral music, particularly recognised for his work in developing and bringing wider attention to the cathedral choral tradition during the 1960s and beyond.

The repertoire draws on centuries of Christmas musical heritage, combining traditional English carols with internationally familiar hymns. Highlights include the atmospheric "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen", the uplifting "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing", the much-loved "Silent Night" and the familiar seasonal storytelling of "Good King Wenceslas".

There is a particularly appealing sense of occasion throughout the programme, reflecting the grandeur and warmth associated with traditional cathedral worship. The combination of choir and organ makes this an ideal record for listeners who appreciate English sacred music, traditional Christmas recordings and the distinctive sound of British cathedral choirs.

Originally recorded in the 1960s and issued on vinyl during the period when Music For Pleasure brought classical, religious and seasonal recordings to a wider domestic audience, the album also has appeal as a piece of vintage British Christmas music history.

A charming addition to a Christmas vinyl collection, this is a record for anyone who enjoys traditional carols, English choral music, cathedral recordings and the nostalgic atmosphere of Christmas on vinyl.

Tracklist

Side A
A1. Once In Royal David's City
A2. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
A3. While Shepherds Watched
A4. See, Amid The Winter's Snow
A5. As With Gladness Men Of Old
A6. The First Nowel

Side B
B1. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
B2. It Came Upon The Midnight Clear
B3. Silent Night
B4. Good King Wenceslas
B5. O Little Town Of Bethlehem
B6. O Come, All Ye Faithful