Coventry Orchestra’s Winter Concert ‘Music Glorious Music’ in aid of local food banks

An unmissable family concert from Coventry’s Heart of England Co-operative concert orchestra – who knows, Santa may even make time in his busy schedule to join them!

Funds raised will aid the important work of Balsall Common Lions to support local food banks in the Christmas period.

This event promises a delightful selection of Christmas classics and orchestral favourites. Audience members will enjoy a magical programme featuring selections from Oliver, The Nutcracker Suite, Christmas at the Movies, White Christmas, and Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson, along with other seasonal music.

Book the concert in your diary at 3pm on 7th December at Heart of England School, Gipsy Lane, Balsall Common, CV7 7FW.

The concert will raise funds for Balsall Common Lions in support of local food banks.

Now in its 106th year, the orchestra has been bringing music to Coventry since 1917 and is proudly sponsored by the Heart Of England Cooperative Society. 

Last year the orchestra raised over £1,860 for charities including Coventry and Warwickshire Mind, UNICEF and Global Care.

Ticket prices are £11 adults, £8 concessions, £1 children under 16. A drink and a slice of cake included in ticket price. Tickets are available on the door or can be booked in advance:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/heart-of-england-coop-concert-orchestra/winter-concert/e-pqykyz

Why not come and play with them? The orchestra is currently welcoming new members so if you’re ready for a new playing challenge or want to dust off your instrument after a break, get in touch about coming along: https://www.coventrycooporchestra.org.uk/join-hoecco

How to Hunt Down Christmas-Themed Music Stations for 24/7 Festive Tunes

As the days grow shorter and the air gets a little crisper, many of us find ourselves craving the comforting and cheerful sounds of Christmas music. 

Whether you prefer traditional carols, modern pop hits, or instrumental classics, there’s something magical about having a stream of festive music playing in the background to accompany you through the season. 

However, finding the perfect source for 24/7 Christmas music can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. Worry not! Here’s a handy guide to hunting down Christmas-themed music stations on the internet so you can bask in the yuletide cheer all season long.

1. Search Internet Radio Platforms

Internet radio is your best bet for non-stop Christmas music. Websites like TuneIn Radio, iHeartRadio, and Radio Garden offer thousands of stations from across the globe, many of which dedicate themselves to Christmas music throughout the festive period.

TuneIn Radio: This popular radio streaming service features a variety of stations, some of which are Christmas-only during the festive months. Simply search for "Christmas" or "Holiday music" in the app or website, and you’ll be spoilt for choice with genres ranging from classic crooners to contemporary covers.

iHeartRadio: Particularly popular in the US but available worldwide online, iHeartRadio offers specialised Christmas stations such as iHeart Christmas, which broadcasts non-stop holiday music. They also have channels devoted to specific styles like iHeart Christmas Classics or iHeart Christmas Rock.

Radio Garden: This unique platform lets you spin a globe and listen to live radio from almost any country. By simply searching for stations or hopping around locations like the UK, Germany, or the US, you’ll stumble across holiday-themed channels perfect for different moods.

2. Explore Streaming Services

Streaming services have become a hub for all things music, and many of them launch Christmas-specific playlists and radio stations that run throughout December.

Spotify: Spotify is a treasure trove for festive playlists, but it also features dedicated Christmas radio stations. Try searching for “Christmas Radio” to find continuously curated stations that play a blend of classics and modern hits. For those looking for a particular genre, there are stations dedicated to jazz, acoustic, or pop Christmas tunes.

Apple Music: Apple Music also offers holiday radio stations, often curated by music experts and featuring a wide variety of genres. They also run exclusive festive shows and artist-created playlists during the season, making it a great option for a personalised experience.

Amazon Music: Amazon’s streaming service steps up its festive game with dedicated holiday stations like Holiday Favourites or Christmas Classics. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you may even find certain stations are ad-free, letting you enjoy your music uninterrupted.

3. Christmas-Specific Websites

Believe it or not, some websites are entirely dedicated to spreading Christmas cheer through music! These sites offer themed stations that play Christmas music around the clock.

AccuRadio: AccuRadio provides multiple Christmas channels, each focusing on a different style of holiday music. You can find stations dedicated to country Christmas, classical carols, indie holiday tunes, and more. Plus, it’s free!

Christmas Radio: As the name suggests, this website is 100% committed to Christmas music. Their stream runs year-round, but the magic truly kicks in from November onwards, with an uptick in variety and frequency of holiday classics.

XmasFM.com: This Irish-based Christmas station is one of the most beloved, playing non-stop holiday hits from November to December each year. They also offer an online stream, perfect for anyone wanting to get into the spirit from the comfort of their home.

4. YouTube Christmas Streams

If you’re more of a visual listener, YouTube is an excellent place to find 24/7 Christmas music streams. Some channels are devoted to broadcasting holiday tunes alongside cosy visuals like crackling fireplaces, gently falling snow, or festive street scenes.

Christmas Songs and Carols - Love to Sing: This YouTube channel features live Christmas music streams as well as individual songs and albums. The perfect blend of traditional and modern, it’s great for both background music and singalongs.

Lofi Christmas: For those who enjoy the more relaxed side of holiday music, lo-fi Christmas music streams are the perfect soundtrack to a cosy day indoors. A simple search for “lo-fi Christmas music” will reveal several streams that play soft, chill Christmas tunes around the clock.

5. Mobile Christmas Radio Apps

If you want your Christmas music on the go, downloading a dedicated Christmas radio app can be a great option. Here are a few reliable ones:

Christmas Radio (available on iOS and Android): This app pulls together a variety of Christmas stations from around the world. Whether you’re looking for classical carols, jazz renditions, or a more contemporary mix, you’ll find it all in one convenient spot.

Simple Radio: This app offers a straightforward way to search for and listen to Christmas stations from across the globe. Many stations switch to a Christmas format in December, and you can easily find them through the app’s search function.

Final Thoughts

From streaming services and dedicated websites to apps and YouTube channels, there are countless ways to surround yourself with festive cheer through 24/7 Christmas music. Whether you’re after nostalgic hits, modern pop, or instrumental tunes, a little searching online will help you find the perfect station to suit your taste.

The holiday season is about more than just presents and parties; it’s about creating an atmosphere that lifts spirits and brings joy. Christmas music has a special way of doing just that. So, wherever you are, fire up your computer, smart speaker, or phone, and let the festive tunes play on! 

How to Create a Christmas Playlist for Every Occasion

Curate the Perfect Playlist for Your Christmas Party, Family Gatherings, and Quiet Winter Evenings.

The festive season is upon us, and one of the best ways to set the mood for any Christmas occasion is with a carefully curated playlist. 

Whether you're hosting a lively Christmas party, enjoying a cosy family gathering, or unwinding on a quiet winter evening, the right music can make all the difference. 

Here's how to create a Christmas playlist that suits every moment, mood, and setting.

1. Christmas Party Playlist: Bring the Festive Energy

A Christmas party is all about joy, laughter, and good vibes. Your playlist should reflect this by combining upbeat, festive tunes that encourage dancing and merriment.

Song Suggestions:

All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey

A classic that instantly brings festive cheer.

Last Christmas – Wham!

A catchy tune that never fails to get people singing along.

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee

The perfect track to encourage a little dancing.

Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin' Stevens

An 80s favourite that gets the party started.

Tips for Curation:

Mix the classics with modern hits. Start with well-known classics, but don’t hesitate to sprinkle in more recent favourites like Ariana Grande’s Santa Tell Me or Michael Bublé’s It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.

Pace it right. Start with some slower festive songs as your guests arrive, then move into more energetic tracks as the night picks up.

Throw in a surprise. A non-traditional Christmas song like Fairytale of New York by The Pogues can shake things up and get the crowd singing.

2. Family Gathering Playlist: Nostalgic and Heartwarming

When spending time with family, your playlist should evoke a sense of warmth, tradition, and nostalgia. The aim is to create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

Song Suggestions:

White Christmas – Bing Crosby

The epitome of Christmas nostalgia, perfect for setting a warm, peaceful vibe.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – Frank Sinatra

Sinatra’s soothing voice brings a comforting feeling of tradition.

Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney

A cheerful track that keeps spirits bright without overwhelming conversation.

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! – Dean Martin

This timeless tune will put a smile on everyone's face.

Tips for Curation:

Embrace the golden era of Christmas songs. Songs from the 40s, 50s, and 60s, like those by Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald, work well for multigenerational gatherings.

Mix genres and eras. Include some instrumental Christmas jazz or classical Christmas carols for a bit of variety. Tracks from the Home Alone soundtrack or Vince Guaraldi Trio's A Charlie Brown Christmas can add a nostalgic touch.

Keep it light and mellow. Family gatherings often involve conversations and activities, so keep the volume low and the music more background than centre stage.

3. Quiet Winter Evening Playlist: Calm and Reflective

For those peaceful moments when you're sitting by the fire, wrapping gifts, or simply unwinding after a busy day, your playlist should be soft, relaxing, and a little introspective.

Song Suggestions:

The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) – Nat King Cole

A soothing classic that brings a sense of warmth and calm.

Silent Night – Sufjan Stevens

A modern take on the carol, perfect for quiet reflection.

River – Joni Mitchell

A beautifully melancholic song that evokes the peaceful, reflective side of winter.

In the Bleak Midwinter – Choir of King’s College, Cambridge

A hauntingly beautiful carol for moments of peace and stillness.

Tips for Curation:

Go acoustic. Acoustic versions of Christmas songs, or instrumentals such as piano or harp arrangements, help maintain a gentle, calming atmosphere.

Balance the festive with the reflective. Include a few Christmas carols, but mix them with soft wintery tunes that capture the stillness of the season, like A Winter's Tale by David Essex.

Avoid too many distractions. This playlist should be relaxing, so steer clear of overly upbeat songs or anything that might disrupt the tranquil vibe.

Bonus Tip: Use Streaming Services' Features

Whether you’re using Spotify, Apple Music, or another platform, take advantage of their features:

Create different playlists for different moments. You don’t need just one playlist for the entire season. Curate a few, so you’re always ready for the right moment.

Collaborate with friends and family. Make your playlist collaborative so others can add their favourite tracks, especially for a party or family gathering.

Discover new music. Explore the platform's “Christmas” genre or holiday radio stations for fresh takes on festive classics.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Christmas playlist tailored to each occasion will help elevate the festive atmosphere and make your celebrations truly special. From a raucous Christmas party to a quiet, cosy night by the fire, the perfect song is always out there to set the right tone. Happy listening and Merry Christmas!

Creating the Perfect Christmas Playlist for a Magical Christmas Season

The Christmas season is a time for warmth, joy, and celebration with family and friends. Whether you're decorating the tree, preparing a festive feast, or simply relaxing with loved ones, the right music can set the perfect atmosphere. 

A well-curated Christmas playlist becomes the soundtrack of your holiday experience, and with a few thoughtful selections, you can capture the magic of the season in every room of your home.

1. Start with the Classics

The foundation of any Christmas playlist lies in the timeless classics. These are the songs that have stood the test of time and evoke memories of Christmases gone by. Think Bing Crosby's "White Christmas", Nat King Cole's "The Christmas Song", and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." These are the tracks that instantly make you think of crackling fires, twinkling lights, and the first snowflakes of the season.

Including songs like these ensures your playlist has that familiar, nostalgic warmth that we all associate with the holidays.

2. Add Modern Favourites

While the classics are essential, it’s important to mix in some modern favourites to keep the playlist feeling fresh. Artists like Michael Bublé, who has practically become the king of Christmas with his festive album, or Mariah Carey's iconic "All I Want for Christmas Is You," bring a contemporary twist to the playlist.

Don't be afraid to add in more recent releases from artists like Sia or John Legend—there's a wealth of modern Christmas music that still captures the joy and spirit of the season. Mixing these newer tracks with the classics creates a balanced and dynamic playlist that will appeal to all ages.

3. Include Instrumentals for Calm Moments

There are times during the festive season when you’ll want a more relaxed, peaceful atmosphere, and instrumental tracks can help create this calming vibe. Consider including instrumental versions of classic Christmas songs or soft, festive piano music.

"A Charlie Brown Christmas" by Vince Guaraldi Trio is a perfect example of an instrumental album that exudes a mellow holiday mood, ideal for background music during quiet dinners or while wrapping presents.

4. Celebrate with Upbeat Festive Tunes

The festive season isn’t just about quiet reflection—there will be times when you’ll want to liven up the atmosphere. That's where upbeat Christmas songs come into play. Songs like "Jingle Bell Rock" by Bobby Helms, "Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree" by Brenda Lee, and even Wham’s "Last Christmas" will bring energy to your gatherings and put a smile on everyone's face.

For a playful touch, throw in some quirky favourites like "Feliz Navidad" or "Run Rudolph Run." These songs are perfect for when you're hosting a party or just want to dance around the living room in your Christmas jumper.

5. Don’t Forget International Flavours

Christmas is celebrated across the globe, and your playlist can reflect this diversity. Including songs in different languages or from other cultures is a great way to bring a unique, global perspective to your holiday playlist.

Tracks like "Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano, "Petit Papa Noël" by Tino Rossi, or even a German classic like "O Tannenbaum" can bring a new dimension to your Christmas celebrations, reminding us that the spirit of the season transcends borders.

6. Include Children’s Favourites

If you have little ones running around the house during the festive season, adding in some children’s Christmas songs is a must. Songs like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "Frosty the Snowman," or even "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" will keep the children engaged and excited for Santa’s arrival.

Including some playful, sing-along tracks ensures that the whole family can enjoy the festive fun.

7. Personalise with Family Favourites

Every family has its own Christmas traditions and, often, certain songs will hold a special meaning. Whether it’s a carol that’s sung every year or a particular song that reminds you of a loved one, don’t forget to include those personal favourites.

Perhaps it’s Elvis Presley’s "Blue Christmas" that takes you back to your childhood, or The Pogues' "Fairytale of New York" that’s been your family’s Christmas anthem for years. These tracks add a personal touch to your playlist, making it uniquely yours.

8. Create Multiple Playlists for Different Moods

Christmas is a multifaceted season, filled with different types of moments—from boisterous family gatherings to quiet evenings by the fire. Creating multiple playlists for different moods or occasions can enhance your holiday experience. Have a playlist full of lively, upbeat songs for Christmas morning and another filled with serene, reflective carols for cosy evenings.

A variety of playlists means you can always have the perfect soundtrack, no matter the occasion.

Conclusion

Curating the ultimate Christmas playlist is all about balance. By blending timeless classics, modern hits, instrumentals, and a few personal favourites, you can create a soundtrack that enhances every moment of your holiday season. Remember, Christmas music is about capturing the spirit of joy, love, and togetherness—so have fun with it, and let the music fill your home with festive cheer.

Happy curating, and Merry Christmas! 

Top ten bestseller for Christmas

Associated Editions is pleased to announce that their book and CD for Christmas has now entered the top ten bestselling books in Ireland. 

'Gloria: an introduction to 1,000 years of Sacred Music' by Tim Thurston has a special Christmas theme and tells the story of European sacred music earliest times to the present day, interspersed with 20 pen portraits of the key composers.

It also incorporates a CD (21 tracks) featuring the best of their Christmas music from the renowned Hyperion catalogue and is sumptuously illustrated with Sacred Art for Christmas from Irish collections, some published for the first time.

Choirs included on this CD are:

The Choir of St. John’s College, Cambridge, Gothic Voices, Red Byrd, The Binchois Consort, Westminster Cathedral Choir, The Choir of the King’s Consort, The Corydon Singers, The Choir of Wells Cathedral, The Choir of Westminster Abbey.

Images in this book include Sacred Art from British and European Artist’s spanning a millennium.

Book & CD: £20
ISBN: 978-1-906429-18-8

The Florin Street Band to support ITV’s Text Santa appeal

Music Video Filmed at Blists Hill Victorian Town

The spectacular Victorian-themed Christmas song; My Favourite Time of Year by The Florin Street Band, whose music video was filmed at Blists Hill Victorian Town in the Ironbridge Gorge, is set to benefit numerous charities this Christmas as it becomes the theme to ITV’s Text Santa appeal.


The YouTube hit recently caused a stir across the pond when the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” requested permission to perform it at their high profile concerts in Washington D.C. – an honour rarely bestowed upon modern-day Christmas songs.


Originally released in 2010, My Favourite Time of Year, written and performed by British composer Leigh Haggerwood, has become an internet sensation gaining legions of passionate supporters and celebrity fans including Jamie Oliver and Ryan Seacrest. The project was created without record company backing and funded entirely with Leigh Haggerwood’s life savings.


The traditional-style Christmas song was recorded at Trevor Horn’s Sarm studios, and features performances by 36 musicians including The English Chamber Choir. The acclaimed Victorian music video, shot at Blists Hill Victorian Town at Ironbridge in Shropshire, was directed by Nick Bartleet and Hollywood Cinematographer John Perez – known for his work on Coldplay’s Viva La Vida and video’s by Beyoncé and Rihanna amongst others. Leigh Haggerwood was approached by producers of the new ITV Text Santa appeal earlier this year, he said; “The ITV producers really liked the song and felt it would be a great match for Text Santa, so they asked if I’d consider letting them use it as the theme music for the appeal.

"When they explained the project I was really impressed by the idea and the nine fantastic charities it’s supporting, so of course I said yes! Since the song will undoubtedly become synonymous with Text Santa, and they’re such great causes, I think it’s only fair that the charities benefit from the success of the song too, so I have decided to donate all of this year’s UK download recording profits to the Text Santa charities along with Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust – an amazing educational charity whose Victorian town was the location for our beautiful music video.”

Leigh Haggerwood is now writing a Florin Street album for release in 2012, and is currently discussing the possibility of turning Florin Street into a musical animation. The Text Santa launch show hosted by Philip Schofield and Christine Bleakley will be broadcast on ITV1 on Sunday 11th December with its live finale hosted by Ant and Dec and later Holly Willoughby taking place on Christmas Eve. My Favourite Time of Year is released on December 5th 2011 and will be available at iTunes, Amazon and most other online stores. All UK download recording profits will be shared between the following charities:

6/7 to go to the Text Santa Charities: Carers UK, Crisis, Help the Hospices, Samaritans, WRVS, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Noah’s Ark Appeal, Helping Hand, Yorkhill Children’s Foundation.

And 1/7 to: Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust

To view the music video visit www.florinstreet.com