A Festive Symphony: Norwich Cathedral Choir’s Christmas Carol Album

In a celebration of the festive season, Norwich Cathedral Choir has released a beautiful new album titled “Lord of the Dance: Christmas Carols from Norwich Cathedral.” This musical offering, available since November 7th on all major streaming platforms, features the talented choir performing twenty beloved Christmas carols that span traditional favorites like “Away in a Manger” and “The First Nowell” to the enchanting “Sussex Carol.” Music enthusiasts can also purchase the CD version from Norwich Cathedral’s gift shop at a special introductory price of £10, making this collection of sacred music accessible to all who wish to bring the Cathedral’s Christmas spirit into their homes. The recording represents months of preparation culminating in a June recording session that took place within the magnificent acoustic setting of Norwich Cathedral’s Nave, creating a unique sonic experience that captures the essence of Christmas within this historic sacred space.

The recording project brought together an impressive ensemble of musical talent. The Cathedral Choir was joined by the acclaimed Onyx Brass ensemble and David Dunnett, who had recently retired after serving an impressive 29 years as the Cathedral organist. Under the direction of Ashley Grote, the Cathedral’s Master of Music who conducted the choir throughout the recording process, the album presents a harmonious blend of voices and instruments. Grote expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “I’m really thrilled with our new Christmas album, Lord of the Dance, which is a collection of some of the best-loved carols, some in new arrangements. The combination of the Cathedral Choir, the newly rebuilt organ, along with award-winning ensemble Onyx Brass is a very special sound.” He further highlighted the exceptional work of Norwich-based independent record label Deux-Elles Classical Recordings, which he credited with capturing the authentic atmosphere of Norwich Cathedral during the Christmas season, adding, “I hope that the album will bring a lot of joy to people this Christmas!”

What makes this album particularly special is its innovative musical arrangements alongside traditional favorites. The title track “Lord of the Dance” features a new arrangement by Ashley Grote himself, who also created fresh interpretations of beloved classics such as “O Come, Emmanuel,” “Away in a Manger,” and “Silent Night.” The album proudly showcases new arrangements by celebrated choral composer Bob Chilcott alongside popular arrangements by Sir David Willcocks and contemporary works by Sally Beamish and Will Todd. This thoughtful mixture of traditional and contemporary approaches creates a rich tapestry of Christmas music that honors tradition while embracing musical innovation. Adding to the album’s significance, it represents the first recording made at the Cathedral following a major rebuild of its historic pipe organ in 2023. This connection is beautifully acknowledged in the album’s cover artwork, which features the cymbelstern—a special star that decorates the top of the organ—symbolizing the central role of this magnificent instrument in the Cathedral’s musical heritage.

The recording brought together approximately fifty singers from the Norwich Cathedral Choir, including choristers, lay clerks, and choral scholars, representing the full range and depth of the Cathedral’s musical community. For many of the younger performers, the project provided a unique opportunity to experience professional recording techniques while contributing to a lasting musical legacy. Hannah Kelleway, a 17-year-old Senior Girl Chorister, shared her perspective: “Everyone really enjoyed recording the Christmas album. It was a unique and wonderful opportunity and it was very interesting to see the work that goes into creating a professional recording.” Similarly, 12-year-old chorister Max Kotzee reflected on the experience: “I most enjoyed listening to and working with Onyx Brass, who were amazing. It was interesting seeing the recording technicians in action and learning about sound recording.” These testimonials highlight how the project served not only as a musical endeavor but also as an educational experience for the Cathedral’s younger musicians, offering them insight into the professional recording process while allowing them to participate in creating a work of lasting cultural significance.

The production of “Lord of the Dance: Christmas Carols from Norwich Cathedral” represents a collaborative effort extending beyond the musicians themselves. The album was recorded and produced by Norwich-based independent record label Deux-Elles Classical Recordings, reflecting the project’s commitment to supporting local artistic enterprises. Financial support came from multiple sources, including The Statham Society, Norwich Cathedral’s dedicated group of music supporters, as well as a generous legacy donation. This community-centered approach to funding emphasizes the Cathedral’s connection to its supporters and the shared value placed on preserving and promoting sacred music traditions. The album stands as a testament to what can be achieved when musical talent, community support, and technological expertise come together in service of a cherished cultural tradition.

As the festive season approaches, “Lord of the Dance: Christmas Carols from Norwich Cathedral” offers listeners a chance to experience the reverence and joy of Christmas through timeless carols performed in one of England’s most magnificent sacred spaces. The album is now available for purchase at the Norwich Cathedral Shop and online through the Cathedral’s website, as well as on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Apple Music Classical, Amazon Music, and Presto Classical. Beyond the album itself, Norwich Cathedral invites visitors to experience the Christmas season through various festive services and events, details of which can be found on the Cathedral’s website. In a world often filled with commercial Christmas music, this album offers something more profound—a connection to centuries of musical tradition, performed with skill and reverence in a space designed for the glorification of the divine, inviting listeners to experience the true wonder and spiritual depth of the Christmas season through the universal language of music.