Carol For The Newborn King: Choral Instrumental Pak
By Ben Jonson and John Leavitt / By John Leavitt
Item: 35-PK01042909
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Description
Floating effortlessly, this anthem for soloist and choir is the perfect Christmas Eve offering. Surprising harmonies delight while the theologically rich lyric reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas. Score and Parts (fl 1-2, ob, cl 1-2, bn, perc 1-3, hp, vn 1-2, va, vc, db) available as a digital download.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK01042909
More about this title
About the Composer: Ben Jonson and John Leavitt
John Leavitt has established himself as one of the most performed choral composers in America, with a catalog spanning sacred, secular, and holiday works. His arrangements and compositions consistently prioritize singability and emotional directness, making them favorites in church and concert settings alike. Ben Jonson, the Renaissance poet and playwright, authored the original text that forms the foundation of this carol, his words carrying the theological weight that Leavitt's music honors.
Why we love this
Leavitt's setting avoids the oversaturated Christmas anthem sound; the surprising harmonies provide freshness without alienating your singers or audience. The solo writing gives a featured vocalist genuine moment while keeping the piece accessible to choirs without extensive soloists' rosters, and the orchestration balances richness with flexibility since not every program will field a full ensemble.
What to expect
The music settles into a contemplative space from the first measures, creating an atmosphere of genuine wonder rather than celebration. Leavitt's orchestration wraps the text in warmth while the harmonic language occasionally shifts beneath you, keeping listeners attentive to both the melody and the deeper meaning underneath.
Who it's for
Choirs with access to a strong soloist and at least a modest instrumental ensemble, particularly those serving in worship settings or preparing concert holiday programs. The piece works equally well for high school and college choirs seeking Christmas repertoire with substance beyond sentiment.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the opening phrases to breathe naturally; this piece floats best when conductors resist over-conducting and allow the legit singing line to emerge organically.
- Balance the soloist carefully with choral sections. The intimacy of the lyric demands that everyone hear the words, especially the theologically centered text.
- Let the surprising harmonies land without overdoing them. Trust Leavitt's voice leading; excessive emphasis on chromatic moments will cheapen their effect.
- If using a reduced ensemble, prioritize strings and harp for the harmonic foundation; they carry the piece's reflective character most effectively.
How to use it
Position this as a centerpiece for an Advent or Christmas Eve service, or use it as the emotional anchor in a holiday concert's second half. Its reflective quality provides necessary contrast to more festive carols and works beautifully alongside both contemporary and traditional Christmas repertoire.
Skills your students will build
- balancing solo line with ensemble support in choral texture
- phrasing with longer breath spans in legit melodic writing
- reading and responding to chromatically altered harmonies
- ensemble listening when harmonic language is unfamiliar
- interpretation of theological or narrative text in music