Composer

:

John Gardner

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:18

'A Gallery Carol' is a choral work composed by John Gardner in 1965. It was premiered on December 16, 1965, at the National Gallery in London, England. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a painting from the National Gallery's collection. The first movement, "The Annunciation," is based on a painting by Fra Angelico. It is a lively and joyful piece, with the choir singing in unison and the organ providing a bright accompaniment. The second movement, "The Nativity," is based on a painting by Piero della Francesca. It is a more contemplative piece, with the choir singing in harmony and the organ providing a gentle accompaniment. The third movement, "The Adoration of the Magi," is based on a painting by Jan Gossaert. It is a grand and majestic piece, with the choir singing in harmony and the organ providing a powerful accompaniment. The final movement, "The Flight into Egypt," is based on a painting by Jacopo Bassano. It is a peaceful and reflective piece, with the choir singing in harmony and the organ providing a gentle accompaniment. Overall, 'A Gallery Carol' is a beautiful and evocative choral work that showcases Gardner's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of different musical styles and textures to evoke the different paintings, as well as its use of traditional Christmas themes and imagery. It remains a popular choice for choirs and audiences alike, and is a testament to Gardner's enduring legacy as a composer.

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