Carol services: fresh music for a timeless tradition

The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is one of the most cherished traditions in the choral calendar. First created in the late nineteenth century and later made famous by King’s College, Cambridge, it has shaped the way Christmas is celebrated in churches across the world. Each reading tells part of the story, from the fall of humanity through to the birth of Christ, interwoven with music that reflects and deepens the words.

While not every carol service follows the full pattern of nine lessons, many retain a similar arc, tracing the themes of sin, promise, prophecy, and fulfilment that lead us to the nativity.

Congregations will expect to hear and sing familiar carols, but there is also great value in exploring newer works. Programming music by living composers can bring fresh energy and insight to these well-loved readings, connecting the timeless story with the creativity of today. Our catalogue at Choral Music Publishing offers a wide range of pieces, from simple hymns and accessible carols through to more challenging works. Below are some suggestions to match with each of the themes; an invitation to refresh your carol service this year with music that feels both rooted in tradition and alive with new possibilities.

The first few readings in a carol service often set the stage for the nativity, tracing humanity’s need for redemption and God’s unfolding promise of salvation. They speak of God’s words to Adam after the loss of Paradise, the blessing given to Abraham that through his seed all nations will be redeemed, and the prophets foretelling the coming of a Saviour who will bring peace to the world.

Amy Bebbington’s The Holy Guest (SSATB – Moderate) captures this sense of promise and anticipation with expressive lines and rich textures. It also resonates with the vision of hope and expectation in Isaiah’s prophecy, while Oliver Tarney’s Under the starlight (SATB – Easy) offers a gentler, reflective alternative, beautifully evoking the harmony and peace to come.

Often a reading is included which recounts the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary (Luke 1: 26–35, 38). Amy Bebbington’s Blessed be that Maid Marie (SATB & Piano / SSAA & Piano – Moderate) offers a vibrant and expressive response to this encounter. For something more traditional in feel, Baz Chapman’s The Holly and the Ivy (SATB & Piano / SSA & Piano / SAB & Piano – Moderately Easy) provides a lively and accessible option. And Oliver Tarney’s The Blackthorn carol (SATB – Moderately Difficult) adds a more dramatic colour, with its compelling harmonies and striking contrasts.

The essential nativity passage (Luke 2: 1; 3–7) tells of the birth of Jesus. There are many beautiful pieces in the catalogue that reflect this tender moment. David Bednall’s Sing lullaby (SATB – Moderate) has a lyrical and flowing character, while Philip Lawson’s Little Jesus (SATB & Piano – Easy) is gentle and accessible, perfect for a wide range of choirs. Kim Porter’s Lullaby (SATB – Moderately Easy) is another wonderful option, with a warm, expressive quality.

The next reading, from Luke 2: 8–16, brings the shepherds to the manger. Katy Lavinia Cooper’s Kersland Street (SSATB – Moderately Easy) offers an engaging contemporary flavour, while Don Gillthorpe’s From East to West (SATBB – Moderate) provides a robust, joyful sound. Suzzie Vango’s arrangement of Don oíche úd i mBeithil (SATB – Easy) is a lovely choice for choirs looking for something rooted in Irish tradition. Finally, Don Gillthorpe and Mother Carrie Thompson’s hymn Hear on the heights (SATB – Easy) brings a straightforward, singable option suitable for congregations and choirs alike.

In advance of Epiphany, congregations will often hear from Matthew 2: 1–12, the visit of the wise men. Glory, glory! by Andrew Groom and Charles Price (SAB & Piano / Upper Voices & Piano – Moderately Easy) makes a joyful and celebratory choice, while Oliver Tarney’s Under the starlight (SATB – Easy) offers a reflective counterpart, focusing on the guiding light of the star.

The traditional final lesson, from John 1: 1–14, reflects on the great mystery of the Incarnation. Amy Bebbington’s Up! Good Christian folk (SATB – Moderate) captures the energy and wonder of this profound passage, closing the service with a sense of joy and celebration.

Whether you are planning a traditional Nine Lessons and Carols or shaping a programme of your own, we hope these suggestions inspire you to explore the richness of music by CMP composers. All of these scores can be purchased directly from our website; why not explore something new for your choir this Christmas?

Don Gillthorpe, August 2025