Ceremonies of Carols
Benjamin Britten, A Cremony of Carols. Op 28
Composed in 1942 during his return voyage from the United States to England, Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28, stands as one of the most beloved choral works of the twentieth century. Originally written for treble voices and harp, Con Brio will perform Brittten’s later SATB version. The piece draws on a collection of medieval English texts that Britten encountered during his journey, shaping them into a radiant sequence that reflects both the mystery and joy of the Christmas story.
Rather than presenting a single narrative, Britten organizes the work as a series of contrasting movements, framed by the plainsong processional “Hodie Christus natus est.” Within this structure, he explores a wide range of moods—from the exuberant energy of “This Little Babe” to the serene stillness of “There Is no Rose,” and the contemplative beauty of the harp interlude. The interplay between voices and harp creates a distinctive, shimmering sound world that evokes both ancient tradition and modern clarity.
A Ceremony of Carols reveals Britten’s extraordinary sensitivity to the text, combining rhythmic vitality, lyrical grace, and expressive depth. The result is a work that captures the wonder of the Nativity while remaining timeless in its emotional appeal, continuing to enchant performers and audiences alike.
Full program details to be announced later.
Concerts will be held at the Morgan School, 71 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton, CT 06413, Saturday December 12 and Sunday December 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM
The Morgan School is a wonderful modern facility with a large comfortable auditioriun and extensive parkining. The school is on CT Route 81 just north of I-95 exit 63, past the Clinton Outlets. Click on the Google map below
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