Music: Christmas Time

Christmas Collection
Christmas Time
By Jan Van der Roost
De Haske: DHP 1145579-030
www.bandmusicshop.com

Composer, Paul McGhee reviews a new festive number from Jan Van der Roost

As the Christmas pads are dusted off for another round of yuletide concerts, a little freshness could be added to the festive programme with Jan Van der Roost’s Christmas Time. This is a piece that could easily fit anywhere in a concert programme and although marked Grade 3, is more than approachable for bands throughout the grading system.

Starting off in quiet and reflective mood with William Chatterton Dix’s carol, What Child is This, which is itself is set to the melody of Greensleeves, the music gradually begins to gather momentum before Deck the Halls continues and leads us into a rousing finale. Well scored throughout, the music never becomes unfocused and the audience is certain to be drawn in by the well-constructed use of these two popular and ageless favourites.

 
Read more reviews, news and features by subscribing to BBW Digital. Alternatively, subscribe to the printed magazine delivered by post: £40 (UK); £68 (Europe); £81 (Rest of the World)