Carol of the Day
"Angels We Have Heard on High" is a carol that tells the story of the birth of baby Jesus. This was translated from French to English by Bishop James Chadwick.
Composer of the Day
Gustav Holst was a British composer and influential music educator of the 20th century. He is particularly known for his orchestral pieces and stage works. His most famous work is "The Planets," an orchestral suite consisting of seven movements, each named after a planet and their respective character in Roman mythology.


It starts off with the spine-tingling "Mars, the Bringer of War" and ends with "Neptune, the Mystic."

Today in Music History
On this day in 1932, singer Al Jolson records one of his famous hits titled "April Showers." Jolson also appeared on several films including "Swanee River" and "Mammy." Two films based on his life story was released in 1946 and 1949. He is also known for his famous line "You ain't heard nothin' yet!".

Suggested Stocking Stuffer
The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra - A book and cd combo that helps young readers learn more about orchestral instruments with explanations and full-color illustrations. Features the music of Benjamin Britten, narrated by Ben Kingsley.

Inside the Music Education Blogosphere
David French of the Tambur Music Education Blogspot shares with us several resources for Christmas music.