When it comes to Christmas choral music, few composers capture the season’s spirit quite like John Rutter. His works are beloved by choirs around the world for their lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and accessible yet expressive writing.
Whether you’re planning a school concert, a church service, or a community performance, adding a Rutter piece to your program guarantees both singers and audiences will feel the magic of Christmas.
Here are four John Rutter Christmas pieces every choir should consider — complete with rehearsal tracks to help your singers learn with confidence!
✨ 1. Christmas Lullaby
A tender and expressive carol that highlights Rutter’s gift for melody. Christmas Lullaby features flowing lines and heartfelt text, making it a perfect moment of reflection in your concert program.
👉 Watch the rehearsal tracks here!
✨ 2. Christmas Night
This carol captures the quiet beauty and peace of the Nativity. With gentle rhythms and warm harmonies, Christmas Night works beautifully as a contemplative piece that contrasts with livelier carols in your set list.
👉 Watch the rehearsal tracks here!
✨ 4. Candlelight Carol
Lyrical and deeply moving, Candlelight Carol is a favorite for choirs of all levels. The lush harmonies and evocative text about the Nativity scene make it a showstopper piece that leaves a lasting impression.
👉 Watch the rehearsal tracks here!
✨ 3. Angel’s Carol
One of Rutter’s most joyful and well-known Christmas works! Angel’s Carol sparkles with energy and is ideal for opening a program or bringing festive cheer mid-concert. Its memorable refrain (“Gloria, gloria…”) is sure to delight both singers and audience alike.
👉 Watch the rehearsal tracks here!
Why Your Choir Needs a Rutter Piece This Christmas
- Accessible for singers: Rutter writes in a way that supports good choral technique while still being approachable for a wide range of choirs.
- Audience appeal: His music is instantly recognizable and always well-received by audiences.
- Balance in programming: From joyful to reflective, these pieces offer a variety of moods to round out any Christmas concert.
Adding a John Rutter carol is like adding a touch of sparkle to your holiday program — timeless, elegant, and deeply moving.
💡 Looking for more support? Explore my full collection of choral rehearsal tracks to help your choir learn faster and sing more confidently!
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