What is Britten's 'A Ceremony of Carols' about?

Benjamin Britten's 'A Ceremony of Carols' is a song cycle inspired by medieval texts, evoking mystical and faith-filled themes, often set to harp accompaniment.

Who performed at Eglwys Dewi Sant?

The Cardiff Polyphonic Choir, conducted by Thomas Blunt, performed at Eglwys Dewi Sant.

What Welsh composers were featured in the concert?

Works by Welsh composers Alun Hoddinott and William Mathias were revisited during the concert.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Cardiff Choir Sings Britten's 'A Ceremony of Carols'

Cardiff Choir Sings Britten's 'A Ceremony of Carols'

15 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Cardiff Polyphonic Choir performed Britten's song cycle.
Concert featured works by Welsh composers like Mathias.
Julius Harrison's arrangement of Britten's work was used.

Cardiff Choir Sings Britten's 'A Ceremony of Carols'

Eglwys Dewi Sant in Cardiff recently hosted a memorable Christmas celebration featuring the Cardiff Polyphonic Choir. Under the direction of Thomas Blunt, the choir presented Benjamin Britten's "A Ceremony of Carols" using Julius Harrison's arrangement for mixed choir. The performance highlighted the song cycle's mystical and evocative qualities, from its plainchant opening to its concluding "Alleluia."

The concert also showcased earlier works, including Mendelssohn's motets and a setting of "Maria durch ein Dornwald ging." Contemporary pieces by Gašper Jereb, alongside carols by John Rutter and Judith Weir, added contemplative depth. The program intentionally linked different traditions through recurring texts and "Alleluia" refrains, creating a cohesive auditory experience.

Adding a distinctively Welsh flavor, the choir revisited commissioned pieces by Alun Hoddinott and William Mathias. The lively "Sir Christèmas" by Mathias, accompanied by Philip Aspden on organ, concluded the segment with exuberant shouts of "Nowell!"