With a blending of new melodies and familiar Christmas carols, this work recalls the dark days of anguish for ancient Israel, only to give way to the dawning of a new day of light and love when Christ was born. Through the scripturally based narration and music, singers and listeners are once again invited to the humble birthplace of the Savior. Conceived as a Christmas worship experience, this collaborative work is created by two seasoned veterans of church choral literature: Lloyd Larson and Douglas E. Wagner. The eight choral settings will be quickly mastered by choirs large or small during the busy Advent/Christmas season, and each selection may be utilized individually during the Advent season. The cantata will work successfully accompanied by piano alone or by utilizing the inspired orchestrations of Brant Adams (with live instruments or the fully orchestrated accompaniment CD). The optional inclusion of congregation on familiar carols makes this a truly participatory experience.

Voicing: SATB,Pno