This Saturday evening at 8:00, WHRO-FM invites you to celebrate the season with “This Just In,” where host Raymond Jones unwraps three hours of holiday-inspired new classical releases. The program is a festive blend of traditional carols and fresh seasonal compositions, sure to fill your evening with warmth and cheer.
The evening begins with “The Great Glad Tidings Tell: Carols from Copley Square,” a stunning collection from the Choir of Trinity Church, Boston. Recorded in the historic and acoustically rich Trinity Church at Copley Square, this album showcases both traditional and contemporary carols, brought to life by the choir’s exceptional talent.
Next, we’ll revel in the brilliance of the Black Dyke Band, performing John Rutter’s festive brass arrangements. “Brass at Christmas,” recently released by Naxos, includes Rutter classics like “We Wish you a Merry Christmas,” “Christmas Lullaby,” and “Candlelight Carol,” all conducted by Nicholas Child.
From the album “Christmas Story,” we’ll enjoy Gabriel Jackson’s moving composition “Candlemas,” featuring the Girl Choristers of Merton College and the Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, conducted also by Nicholas Child. This piece captures the magic and reverence of the Christmas season, blending traditional choral beauty with Jackson’s modern sensibilities.
The journey continues with “Kommet, ihr Hirten,” a fresh release from Berlin Classics that brings the festive brass sounds of the Dresden Philharmonic to life. From Spanish carols to German medleys like “Weihnachten in Deutschland” and “Weihnachten in Europa,” this album offers a vibrant exploration of Christmas traditions across Europe. With whimsical touches like “Hirten auf Reisen (Shepherds on a Journey),” it’s a delightful musical adventure that continues the strong tradition of brass music during the Advent season.
We’ll also spend a moment in the Austrian Alps with the Ranten Male Quartet. This ensemble’s renditions reflect the rich musical traditions of rural Austria, blending cultural heritage with the joy of the season.
Finally, we’ll hear selections from “Christmas with The Bevan Family Consort,” directed by Graham Ross. This enchanting album includes beloved carols like “In the Bleak Midwinter” and religious music like “Gloria in Excelsis Deo.”
Light the yule log, pour yourself a warm drink, and join us for an evening of holiday magic. Tune in to “This Just In” on WHRO-FM 90.3 or listen online through the WHRO Media Player. Let the music of the season lift your spirits this Saturday at 8:00.
