When the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra discovered at the last minute it had nothing suitable for a high-profile anniversary celebration, Shostakovich agreed to write one in three days. Now one of his most popular works, it is hard to believe Festive Overture was written in haste. The brass fanfare and wild joyfulness of the piece could not be more jubilant and it has also been suggested could be an expression of the composer’s relief following the death of Stalin. 

Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast is also celebratory; a vibrant choral masterpiece that was an instant hit at its 1898 premiere, winning the 23-year old Coleridge-Taylor worldwide acclaim. The piece describes the festivities, dances and entertainment for the guests with the soaring romantic declaration in the famous tenor aria at the centre.

Moving from celebration to deep reflection, Fauré’s Cantique de Jean Racine is a work of serene beauty that stands as one of the most popular treasures of choral music.  In this prize-winning masterpiece, the 19-year old Fauré creates heavenly melody from a humble prayer.

Finally, it wouldn’t be Christmas without some traditional carols.