for treble solo and SATB unaccompanied This atmospheric carol sets the well-known 'O magnum mysterium' text in the version famously used by Victoria, with its tender, devotional additions. Set in four parts, the work unfolds simply, from stillness and silence, in awe and contemplation. The choral writing is effectively punctuated with a high solo voice singing phrases that call to mind fragments of the plainsong chant on the same text, appointed as a Responsary for Christmas Day.

for SSATB (with divisions) and organ Setting an invigorating Easter text from the Song of Songs, this episodic anthem is full of expressive passages and lyrical melodies. The canonical soprano parts are echoed in the lower voices, contributing towards the rich texture, all the while underpinned by an independent, sparkling organ part.

for SSA and piano or harp This anthem sets a powerful poem by John Henry Newman that reflects on the spirituality of solitude. An imaginative interplay between voices and instrumental accompaniment is prevalent throughout, with effective contrasts between tranquillo and animato sections and delicate ostinato patterns. An alternative accompaniment for harp is available for purchase. The anthem is also available in a version for SATB and guitar or piano.

for SATB and organ A celebratory carol in a lilting 12/8 metre, Christmas Welcome sets a joyful fifteenth-century text written by the English priest and poet John the Blind Audelay. Whitbourn employs textural contrasts and call-and-response style pairings of voices to great effect, and the soloistic organ writing allows plenty of opportunity for organists to explore the full range of their instrument.

This collection of well-known pieces from the worship-song repertoire consists of arrangements made specifically for choirs and singing groups to use as anthems. Many of them have already been heard on the BBC's popular 'Daily Service', where listener appeal and musical craftsmanship are both important. In their performance notes the arrangers suggest a variety of scorings to increase the usefulness, flexibility and attractiveness of music which they see as firmly within the 'carol' tradition.