"O Little Town of Bethlehem," a cherished Christmas carol, holds a special place in the pantheon of holiday music. Its creation is rooted in the profound inspiration of Phillips Brooks (1835–1893), a distinguished Episcopal priest and Rector of the Church of the Holy Trinity in Philadelphia. Brooks' journey to the ancient Palestinian city of Bethlehem in 1865 left a lasting impression on him, stirring his soul and inspiring the creation of this beloved carol.
Three years after his transformative pilgrimage, Brooks penned this poignant poem for his congregation. The music, added by his talented organist, Lewis Redner, is known as “St. Louis” and has become the most recognized melody for this carol in the United States.
In a beautiful homage to this classic, the 2022 Pender Christmas Cantata saw a remarkable rendition of Brooks' masterpiece. The Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra brought to life not just Brooks' original vision but also a new dimension of the carol. This rendition was infused with elements from William H. Neidlinger's "The Birthday of a King," arranged masterfully by Lloyd Larson. This adaptation was part of Larson's cantata "Were You There on That Christmas Night?", showcasing his ability to weave together historical and contemporary musical threads.
This reimagined version of "O Little Town of Bethlehem" by the Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra is a testament to the carol's enduring beauty and its ability to resonate across generations. The combination of Brooks' heartfelt lyrics, Redner’s classic tune, and Larson's fresh perspective creates an enchanting musical experience that captures the essence of Christmas—peace, reflection, and joy in the birth of Jesus in the humble town of Bethlehem.
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir sings O Little Town Of Bethlehem
