Christmas Carols in the Vines

Along with traditional Christmas carols led by the Gisborne Choral Society and Gisborne Civic Orchestra musicians at Carols in the Vines, the choral society will perform two pieces themselves.

On the programme is Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych and lyricist Peter J Wilhousky's 1914 work, Carol of the Bells. The song is said to be based on the Ukrainian folk chant Shchedryk.

The original folk story related in the song was associated with the coming New Year, which, in pre-Christian Ukraine, was celebrated with the coming of spring in April.

The original Ukrainian title translates to 'the generous one' or is possibly derived from the Ukrainian word for bountiful (shchedryj) and tells a tale of a swallow flying into a household to proclaim the bountiful year that the family will have.

The choral society will also perform Shaky Places composer Felicity Edgcumbe's choral arrangement of O Holy Night.

The carol was composed by Adolphe Adam in 1847 to the French poem Minuit, Chretiens (Midnight, Christians) which was written by wine merchant and poet Placide Cappeau.

The text reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity's redemption.

Accompanied by Trish Tattle, Derek Allan will sing When A Child Is Born and a cappella group Savvy will also perform.

Children are invited to dress up in Nativity costume and could go as stable animals, wise men, shepherds, angels or Mary and Joseph.

Carols in the Vines, Bushmere Estate, 166 Main Road, Makaraka, December 18. Gates open 5.30pm, singing from 6.30pm. Admission $5 per adult, children free. Prizes for best nativity scene costume.