Amongst the contemporary works in our programme are Cecilia McDowall's O Oriens, an Advent antiphon presenting Christ as the Morning Star, with the shimmering harmonies evoking light brought to those dwelling in darkness.  Star of Rohini by Shruthi Rajasekar, premiered in December 2022, combines Hindu and Christian teachings, comparing the Star of Bethlehem with Krishna's nakshatra (birth star).  We will also perform Seek Him that Maketh the Seven Stars by Jonathan Dove, a firm favourite in English church music since its composition in 1998.
























Nova, Nova by Grayston Ives, published in 1972, tells the tale of the annunciation, setting a medieval anonymous poem.  Oliver Tarney's The Wise Men and the Star (2019) sets words by contemporary poet Lucia Quinault which describe the wise men arriving in Bethlehem and finding Jesus.  More everyday manifestations of stars are covered by American composer Daniel Elder's Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star as well as Chandos favourite Kate Rusby's Underneath the Stars.