[Kathy in Alaska]

Songs for our Troops, Veterans, Families, and Allies!

Kate Smith ~ Silver Bells

[Publius]

MERRY CHRISTMAS

THE BALTIMORE CONSORT

The leading Renaissance music group recorded this disk in 1994 when Custer LaRue was their vocalist. I saw them in both Seattle and Vancouver, and they put on a great show.

This little tune from France was copied down by George Woodward, an early 20th Century Anglican priest who specialized in these things.

“Ding Dong Merrily”

This is a traditional tune from the Shetland Islands.

“Christmas Day in da Mornin’”

The melody dates from 1560 in the German-speaking world.

“Wir singen dir, Immanuel”

From England in 1651 comes a dancing tune. Take your partner around the hall without touching any part except the hand.

“A Wassail Tune”

This originated in Cornwall with medieval mystery plays, so it is quite ancient. Custer LaRue handles vocal duties.

“Tomorrow Shall be My Dancing Day”

This is an Appalachian Christmas number from Virginia.

“A Christmas Jig”

This dates from Renaissance Scotland with some lyrics originating with Isaiah. Custer LaRue sings.

“Rorate coeli desuper”