From the cantata Morning Star, this choral "tour de force" is a dazzling display of both vocal and piano virtuosity. Two time-honored tunes, NÖEL NOUVELET and UKRAINIAN BELL CAROL, are seamlessly woven together in a tapestry of great color and texture. This "dynamic duo" reminds us of the joy that accompanied the birth of Jesus and beckons the world to join the greater "Noel," and the festive orchestral option lifts the concert-worthy encore to dizzying heights. An instant classic!