Hello again singers in Lewes or wherever you are. Early hopes of it “all being over by Christmas” having faded, here we are again, singing 2020 out virtually but still just as heartily. Here are my December suggestions with old, new, starting notes, first verse, chorus, harmonies HERE. Recordings done in previous months are marked *. Words for new songs included, let me know if you need others.
Singers in all three areas should have received the email with the links for three Zoom sessions – the usual Lewes evening slot Tuesday 15th 7:30pm and two afternoon sessions on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th both at 3pm. If you haven’t had these and want to join in let me know and I will send them.
- Let’s warm up with two songs about hills – from West Sussex an old favourite On Sussex Hills* by Hilaire Belloc and from East Sussex the newer Caburn Hill* written by Lewes singer Dave T. I hope you get some fresh air on a hill near you at some point over the festive season.
- Next a quartet of familiar songs from our existing Christmas repertoire – The Holly bears a Berry, Masters in this Hall, The Moon Shone Bright and The Sussex Carol.
- A short comfort and refreshment break then back to introduce two new carols which are known to those of us who usually sing with Brighton Pub Carols (which is taking place via some shared sets on Facebook this year). The Sinners’ Redemption originated in a broadside newspaper from the 1600s and is another of those unusual minor key morality carols where the “mirth” referred to is religious joy. In contrast Now Christmas is Come is a light and cheerful carol which was collected by Lucy Broadwood from the “Singing Baker of Cuckfield”.
- Looking ahead to the wassailing season we have Wassail all your Apple Trees, a new simple round which was introduced by Alan from the Chichester group, and our old friend Sugar (Sussex) Wassail.
- To finish our evening, and the year’s singing, West Sussex Drinking Song* and Thousands or More* to remind us of the things which really matter in life but cost little – companionship; drinking together, which doesn’t have to be alcohol, could be a hot chocolate; sunshine, which may be a bit hazy in winter but is still worth seeking out and sharing with your special people; and of course, singing a song which has a rousing chorus.
If I don’t see you at one of the meetings, I send greetings for Christmas, Hannukah, Winter Solstice or any holiday which you and yours may celebrate in the cold season and I hope to see you in 2021 which surely must be brighter than this year has been.
Best wishes, solidarity, golier etc!
Tina
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