Back in June this year, I asked Epsom Chamber Choir if they would be interested in getting me to write a carol for them. They were ! After working with friend, Merinda D’Aprano on a suitable text “Christmas comes but once a year” took form. The collaboration between lyricist and composer is an important one and it required each to adapt in order to accommodate the good ideas on both side. The text fizzes with the excitement of Christmas but also, in the midst of our enjoyment, to remember those in need and acting in love. This was demonstrated most by the true Christmas story – God coming down to Earth in love to meet our need. John 3v16 says “For God so loved the world that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life”. 

If you are in Epsom on the Saturday 13th December, why not come and listen to the world premiere of “Christmas comes but once a year”.

See below the choir rehearsing the piece.