by Grace Lin
First published 2004
This festive collection brings together beloved Christmas carols with stunning artwork from the National Gallery in London. Traditional favorites like "Once in Royal David's City" appear alongside their sheet music, accompanied by classical paintings that capture the spirit of each song. Jan Breughel the Elder's The Adoration of the Kings provides visual warmth for one carol, while Fra Angelico's celestial figures complement the title song. Botticelli's Mystic Nativity illuminates "O Come, All Ye Faithful," and works by Piero della Francesca, Nicolas Poussin, and Hendrick Avercamp grace other pages. Barrie Carson Turner has arranged all musical pieces for simple performance on piano, recorder, or guitar, keeping them in familiar singing keys. The book serves both carol singers seeking accessible arrangements and art enthusiasts drawn to Renaissance and classical masterpieces, creating a dual celebration of musical and visual Christmas traditions.
Genres: art, christmas, music
Vibes: emotional-atmospheric, intimate, lyrical
Tropes: dual-celebration, found-family
Setting: London, National Gallery
Period: Renaissance, Classical
Hardcover · Little, Brown, & Co