Sheehan had a painterly approach to his score, bringing a range of techniques to the piece. Many of the songs and carols he used dated back to the 15th or 16th centuries, some obscure and others more familiar, like “God Rest You Merry” or “Deck The Hall.” He applied to each tune a particular palette, adjusting to the flow of the story. At times, the choir echoed the spoken text with ethereal effect.

BBC Singers announce that Mel Giedroyc is joining the BBC Singers and Principal Guest Conductor Bob Chilcott for the UK Premiere of Benedict Sheehan's A Christmas Carol. The performance will take place at Milton Court Concert Hall on Wednesday 14 December, 7.30pm. Mel Giedroyc said: "I'm thrilled to be joining the BBC Singers in this classic Christmas tale at the Barbican this December. It's a joy to be bringing A Christmas Carol to life with all the fanfare it deserves: carols, storytelling and live music. I hope you can all join us for a truly festive treat."

Kansas City is famous for its long-held performance traditions, but in recent years arts groups have begun to branch out, with offerings that are a bit off the beaten path. Don’t worry: No one wants to replace our well-known favorites, but a new look at the season can be refreshing. A choice example is the Kansas City Chorale’s local premiere of Benedict Sheehan’s A Christmas Carol (December 2nd through the 16th), a fresh version of the holiday favorite that is, I believe, destined to become a classic.

Nearly 180 years after its first publication, the BBC Singers retell the evocative and festive classic in the UK premiere of this engaging musical dramatisation by GRAMMY®-nominated composer Benedict Sheehan.