We have a collection of 4 arrangements for John Rutter - Christmas Lullaby
Why was "Christmas Lullaby" commissioned for Sir David Willcocks' 70th birthday? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover John Rutter: Master of Choral Music
"Christmas Lullaby" is a beautiful and well-known Christmas choral composition written by the British composer John Rutter. Here are some interesting facts about John Rutter and the composition:
Composer Background: John Rutter was born on September 24, 1945, in London, England. He is a highly regarded composer, conductor, and arranger, particularly known for his choral and Christmas music.
Education: Rutter attended Clare College, Cambridge, where he studied music. He later became the director of music at Clare College, and his association with the choir there greatly influenced his choral composition style.
Versatility: While Rutter is widely known for his Christmas music, he has composed a diverse range of works, including choral pieces, orchestral compositions, and sacred music. His compositions are performed worldwide.
Christmas Lullaby (1989): "Christmas Lullaby" is one of John Rutter's most celebrated Christmas compositions. It was written in 1989 and is scored for mixed choir and orchestra. The piece captures the serene and tender atmosphere of the Nativity, making it a popular choice for Christmas concerts and services.
Lyrics: The lyrics of "Christmas Lullaby" focus on the theme of Mary cradling her newborn baby, Jesus, with a sense of peace and joy. The lullaby captures the universal sentiment of a mother's love and tenderness.
Instrumentation: Rutter's scoring for orchestra in "Christmas Lullaby" complements the choral elements. The orchestration includes strings, harp, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and horn, creating a warm and lush backdrop to the choral voices.
Popularity: "Christmas Lullaby" has gained immense popularity and is frequently performed during the Christmas season. It has become a staple in choral repertoires for Christmas concerts and church services.
Choral Arrangements: In addition to the orchestral version, Rutter has also arranged "Christmas Lullaby" for various vocal ensembles, making it accessible to a wide range of choirs with different abilities and sizes.
Legacy: John Rutter's contributions to the world of choral music and Christmas music, in particular, have left a lasting legacy. His compositions are beloved by choirs and audiences alike, and he continues to be an influential figure in the realm of contemporary classical music.
"Christmas Lullaby" stands as a testament to Rutter's ability to capture the spirit of the season and create timeless and emotive musical experiences.