The New Oxford Book of Carols

The New Oxford Book of Carols book cover

The New Oxford Book of Carols is a significant collection of carols from various historical periods and regions around the world, compiled and edited by Hugh Keyte and Andrew Parrott. It was published by Oxford University Press in 1992. This anthology is notable for its comprehensive coverage of Christmas carols, as well as songs for other seasons, including Easter, and encompasses a wide range of languages and musical traditions.

Overview

The New Oxford Book of Carols includes over 200 carols, each accompanied by a detailed historical and musical background, lyrics, and often multiple versions of the melody. The editors aimed to provide a broad representation of the carol tradition, moving beyond the commonly known repertoire to include medieval, Renaissance, and contemporary works. The collection is distinguished by its scholarly approach, offering readers insights into the development of carol traditions in various cultures and periods.

Contents

The anthology is organized thematically, covering the liturgical year from Advent through to the Feast of the Epiphany, and includes sections dedicated to the Passion and Easter. It also features carols for specific feasts like Candlemas and the Annunciation, as well as a selection of non-seasonal songs of celebration. The geographical range is broad, with carols from the British Isles, Europe, North America, and beyond, reflecting the global nature of the carol tradition.

Significance

The New Oxford Book of Carols is considered an authoritative resource for musicians, scholars, and carol enthusiasts. Its extensive collection, coupled with in-depth scholarly research, makes it a valuable reference for understanding the historical and cultural contexts of carols. The anthology has been praised for reviving interest in lesser-known carols and for its contribution to the preservation of musical heritage.

Reception

Since its publication, The New Oxford Book of Carols has received acclaim for its comprehensive approach and the quality of its musical and historical annotations. It is used by choirs, music directors, and scholars worldwide as a key reference for the study and performance of carols. The book has also contributed to the broader appreciation of carols as a significant aspect of musical and cultural history.

See Also

• Carols
• Oxford University Press
• Hugh Keyte
• Andrew Parrott
• Christmas music
• Liturgical year