Composer

:

John Linton Gardner

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

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Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

2:07

"When Christ was born of Mary free" is a choral work composed by John Linton Gardner in 1983. The piece was premiered on December 18, 1983, by the Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, under the direction of George Guest. The work is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different traditional English carol. The first movement, "The Holly and the Ivy," is a lively and joyful setting of the well-known carol. The second movement, "The Cherry Tree Carol," is a more contemplative and introspective piece, featuring a solo soprano voice. The third movement, "The Coventry Carol," is a haunting and mournful setting of the traditional carol, which tells the story of the Massacre of the Innocents. The final movement, "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day," is a joyful and celebratory setting of the carol, which tells the story of Christ's life and ministry. Gardner's setting of these traditional carols is characterized by his use of rich harmonies and lush textures, which create a sense of warmth and intimacy. The choral writing is also notable for its use of antiphonal effects, with different sections of the choir singing in dialogue with each other. Overall, "When Christ was born of Mary free" is a beautiful and evocative choral work that captures the spirit of the Christmas season. Its combination of traditional carols and modern choral techniques makes it a timeless and enduring piece of music.

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