Ankunft (Arrival): Drei Weihnachtslieder (Three Christmas Carols)

for SATB and piano or small orchestra This dual-language publication sees Bob Chilcott collaborate with German poet and playwright Friederike Karig to write a set of three carols on the theme of moving from darkness to light. The carols guide the listener from Advent to Christmas, encouraging hope for the future in times of difficulty. All the hallmarks of the festive season can be found in this compelling work, from soaring descants to the memorable refrain of 'Licht', which brings the work to a close in a joyous exclamation. Both German and English lyrics are provided, and the three carols may be performed individually or as a set. The accompaniment for small orchestra enriches the characterization, although the work may alternatively be accompanied by solo piano.