This is the score for Alfred Reed's monumental "Russian Christmas Music," a cornerstone of the wind band repertoire. Composed in 1944, this powerful and evocative single-movement work draws its themes from an ancient Russian Christmas carol ("Carol of the Little Russian Children") and elements of Eastern Orthodox liturgical music. While a continuous piece, it is often recognized for its four distinct sections: "Children's Carol," "Antiphonal Chant," "Village Song," and the culminating "Cathedral Chorus." "Russian Christmas Music" is renowned for its rich scoring, brilliant brass writing, and overwhelming sound picture, making it a thrilling and dramatic showcase for any mature concert band.
