ADVENT CALENDAR – DAY 2

I had a deadline this morning, and car trouble, and a funeral, so I’m a little late posting today, but I hope the anticipation makes it all the more special.

For me, the Christmas carol that best heralds the season is Ralph Vaughan Williams’ setting of this Wassail Song, native (like the composer) to Gloucestershire. Interesting that I would always associate it with the advent of Christmas, since apparently wassailing is tied in some traditions to Twelfth Night celebrations, which actually conclude the celebration of Christmas on January 6.

I found this video of Father Christmas himself directing a Cleveland ensemble in the work. They can’t spell “choir,” but they sure can sing.

Here’s a wassail recipe, if you’re interested. You also get a bit of history – including the origins of the custom we call toasting.

Wassail

Enjoy! Hic hic…