Though the melody looks somewhat angular, it should wear its leaps lightly, and a good sense of phrasing is called for. The notes are fairly simple, but this is possibly not the easiest of carols to bring off successfully. However, choirs should be inspired rather than daunted as there is much to like here.

Paul Drayton is a published composer, conductor, and teacher, whose choral works have been performed by many groups, including the King's Singers. He is also co-author, with Pauline Hall, of two Piano Time volumes, published by Oxford University Press.