Christmas With The Tabernacle Choir

A young Felix Mendelssohn wrote this Christmas cantata based on Martin Luther’s “Vom Himmel hoch.” Mendelssohn’s inspiration sprang not from Luther directly, but from his own respect for J. S. Bach, who had also borrowed Luther’s hymn frequently. This performance, by The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra with the Gabriel Trumpet Ensemble, culminates with the final, triumphant stanza of Luther’s hymn.

Long beloved as a German Christmas carol, “O Jesulein süss” began appearing in English translation in the early 20th century. It was Anglican priest and liturgist Percy Dearmer, who arranged Bach’s harmonization of a solo song and recast it for four-part chorus in 1928, published as “O Little One Sweet.” Hear The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra's beautiful interpretation, arranged by Mack Wilberg.

The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra perform “Still, Still, Still,” a 19th-century Austrian Christmas carol on the Nativity, set to a Salzburg folk tune. With new lyrics by David Warner, a longtime friend and collaborator of Mack Wilberg’s, this arrangement of “Still, Still, Still” sees beyond the smiles and sighs of the baby asleep in Mary’s arms to the wonder and promise of Christ, the Savior.

Actress Lesley Nicol narrates the true story of Victor Hugo, author of Les Misérables, and his wife hosting a Christmas feast for impoverished children. Brought to life by actors on stage, this heartwarming story celebrates the transformative power of love and compassion.