The Church of England has released a Christmas single, as part of a campaign encouraging people to come to church, sing carols, and celebrate the real meaning of Christmas.
The song is a new version of the time-honoured text, The First Nowell, written by renowned composer, and former King’s Singer, Bob Chilcott.
But it is a Christmas single like no other as, rather than just one artist, it will be performed by choirs up and down the country, as part of carol services and concerts for Christmas and Advent.
With performances planned in venues from Bethnal Green to Beverley, and from amateur choirs up to some of the country’s finest cathedral choirs, the song will celebrate the tradition of singing carols, and the part it plays in people’s Christmas celebrations.
A recording of the new carol has been released today which will be shared across digital platforms including Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music and YouTube. It is performed by St Martin’s Voices, with organ and brass quintet.
At the heart of the campaign is the simple message inviting everyone to attend a service near them – with thousands of local services listed on AChurchNearYou.com, the website, which allows users to locate services in their area, with tags to help users find carols, mince pies, children’s services and more.
Sheet music of the carol is also freely available for choirs wishing to perform it, together with learning tracks and individual parts.
The Bishop of Stockport, Sam Corley (pictured right), said: “Singing carols is one of those traditions that helps us all get in the mood for Christmas and to think again about how our story connects with the story of God’s longing to be with us.
With familiar words set to a new tune, we hope people will enjoy joining in with the angels to sing a song of celebration as we encounter afresh the Good News of the birth of Jesus Christ.
“So whether you are a regular or haven’t been for some time you are invited to come along to your local church, wherever you live, this Christmas.”
“And with LadBaby out of the running this year, who’s to say that a traditional Carol couldn’t be Christmas number one?”
Proceeds from the single will be donated to the St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity, a UK-wide homelessness charity.
- The sheet music is free to download from the Church Resources Hub (free login required)
- More information about Follow The Star: Join The Song