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American Christmas
was written out of the composer's desire to
underscore the significant contribution America has
made on music around the world. Although
many of
the beloved carols and traditional songs normally
associated with Advent are English, German, French
or some other origin outside the American borders,
there is a wealth of wonderful music "right here at
home." The flagship tune that weaves in and out of
this work is an American revivalist song set to the
text of "O Come All Ye Faithful."
Other songs include the Shaker tune "Simple Gifts"
(Lord OF The Dance) which captures a small fragment
of this country's heritage with its few notes. The
best known carol in this work is "I Wonder As I
Wander" a wonderful Appalachian carol for baritone
solo and mixed chorus. Next, appears an original
carol by the composer representing a feeling of
joyous praise. Finally, a "Star Carol" by Alfred
Burt evokes a serene and intimate mood which would
be found in the manager. The piece closes with the
fanfare material it starts with.
May American Christmas bless you this season and may
you appreciate more fully the beauty of some of our
"national" carols and traditional music.
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