Having been schooled in the UK, in the days when daily religious assembly was standard in all public schools, I have a fine repertoire of carols (non-christians were excused assembly). Carols sung by choirs are an important part of Christmas for me. and one of my most precious memories is of my father listening to the Kings College choir service of Nine Lessons & Carols on Christmas Eve - now, instead of hearing it in the evening, I can hear it on NPR in the daytime. I was surprised to find that many of my favourite carols are generally sung to different tunes Over Here. I've come to like those just as well, but my favourite is O Little Town of Bethlehem - to the tune used in England. It speaks to me of night-time, starlight, frost and the mystery awaiting . . .

sushipup, thank you. I love the music out of King's College! Last week we had a Lessons and Carols concert from our cathedral in Sacramento. I've done many audio virtual choirs before but this was the first with video. Eeeek. Good thing my square was very small.

Thank you for this reminder. I will be joining you. Merry Christmas to you!

I usually listen to this here in England, while making mince pies and rolling the pastry thinner and thinner just to use up the last of the mincemeat. There is a tradition at King's College that while the choristers are lined up and waiting to sing the Processional carol Once in Royal David's City the boy who will sing the solo is chosen by a tap on the shoulder. He is not told earlier so there is no time for him to be nervous! The service is televised and is on the BBC later in the evening. I expect it is available where you all live.