A Perfect Day Tomorrow by Ruth Kenward - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (2m 32s)

Theme - Christmas, Santa Claus, anticipation, excitement

Content - This catchy song captures the excited anticipation that a child feels on Christmas Eve and the hope that Christmas Day will bring everything that is hoped for:  Will Santa Claus have seen the note?   Will he leave a present in the Christmas stocking?

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Lyrics sample

I hope the morning will bring something new.
Will Santa Claus have seen the note I left him?
And will he leave a present in my stocking?
He’s wide awake like me.
He knows that it must be
A perfect day tomorrow.

Let it be happy all day long.
Let nothing end up going wrong.
Let’s have a perfect day tomorrow.

'A Perfect Day Tomorrow' comes from the musical 'Miracle Child'

Away In A Manger by Ruth Kenward - 5 to 9 yrs - KS 1   (2m 22s)
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Theme – classic Christmas carol, the humble birthplace of Jesus.

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Content - The classic song for an infant nativity, Away In A Manger sets the scene of Jesus's birth in a stable, with only a manger for his bed. Sweet and gentle, this is a perennial favourite for the crib scene.
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Song from the musical 'A Way In A Manger'

Baby In A Manger by Judy Lown - 5 to 7 yrs. (1m 57s)

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Theme - Nativity manger song, Christmas, Jesus 

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Content - A simple song with which to celebrate Jesus’ birthday, ideal for inclusion in a DIY nativity. 

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'Baby In A Manger' from the songbook 'Sing Christmas'

Baby Jesus by Nick Perrin - 5 to 7 yrs - (1m 32s)

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Theme - Christmas, Nativity, Manger song

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Content - A sweet, gentle lullaby, addressed to baby Jesus in the manger, ideal as the crib song for a DIY nativity.

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Baby Jesus - (Sleep Tight) from the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Baby Jesus Sleeps  by Gavin Reid - 7 to 12 yrs - KS2  (3m 12s)

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Theme - Christmas, Nativity, birth of Jesus

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Content - This song paints the picture of the manger scene in the most beautiful way, beginning with a lyrical duet, then swelling into a choral section with stunning harmony and counterpoint. The second and third parts are very easy to learn yet wonderfully effective, making this a lovely piece for inclusion in Christmas concerts and ideal for choir repertoire.

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This song features in the 10-song cantata 'Bells Ring Out'

Bells Ring Out by Gavin Reid - 7 to 12 yrs - KS2  (3m 12s)

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Theme - Christmas, celebration, Nativity, praise

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Content - The title number of a 10-song cantata, 'Bells Ring Out' is a lively, joyful number to include in a Christmas concert. The simple harmony and couterpoint parts make this song a valuable addition to school choir repertoire.

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'Bells Ring Out' from the cantata 'Bells Ring Out'

Beneath The Stars by Gavin Reid - 7 to 13 yrs - KS2, KS3  (3m 20s)

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Theme - Christmas, Carol concerts, Nativity, Jesus, praise, faith

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Content - A beautifully lyrical Christmas song, ideal for carol concerts. The simple harmony and counterpoint parts make this song a valuable addition to school choir repertoire.

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'Beneath The Stars' is featured in the cantata 'Bells Ring Out'

Bethlehem Is Calling by Ruth Kenward - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (1m 38s)

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Theme - Christmas, Nativity, spiritual journey

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Content - The ‘tug’ towards Bethlehem, calling shepherds to the stable as Jesus is born.  A useful song for KS2 to include in nativity presentations or carol concerts, and the simple harmony and counterpoint parts make this song a valuable addition to school choir repertoire.

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'Bethlehem Is Calling' is from the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Bethlehem Is Full   by John and Ruth Kenward  -  4 to 7 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, the innkeepers’ song, Christmas

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Content – This very simple song is easy to learn, and contains a brief solo moment for the final innkeeper.  The song is very clearly structured so that it will be easy to direct the movements of children playing the roles of the innkeepers, Mary and Joseph.  Lots of ‘knock, knock, knocking on doors’!

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'Bethlehem Is Full'   is taken from the mini-musical ‘A Little Nativity’

Bigger Than The Biggest Mountain by Ruth Kenward & Caroline Kimber  -  5 to 9 yrs  
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Theme – understanding the nature of God, the Creator, worship
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Content – Ideal for faith-based assembly, this simple song tackles a very profound subject: the nature of God.  "Though we’re tiny in his sight, He loves us with all his might.  It’s so hard for us to understand.” 
Always popular with this age group, as it’s so catchy!

‘Bigger Than The Biggest Mountain’ is taken from the Nativity musical ‘A Way In A Manger’ 

Bumpety, Bumpety, Bump   by John and Ruth Kenward  -  3 to 7 yrs  
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Theme – The journey of the magi, riding camels to Bethlehem, following a star, Nativity

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Content – a very endearing song that depicts the three wise men making their way to Bethlehem, each riding on a camel’s ‘humpety, humpety, hump’!  Younger children love this irresistible song, as it’s very easy to learn, being so clearly structured and right on their wavelength.

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Bumping Up And Down On A Camel  by Peter Fardell - 3 to 7 yrs - Early Years, KS1  (1m 21s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, the magi

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Content - Three wise men are bumping up and down on their camels all the way to Bethlehem, carrying their gifts for baby Jesus.  A song that’s already a perennial favourite, guaranteed to raise a smile!

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'Bumping Up And Down On A Camel' features in the best-selling 'A Wriggly Nativity'

Three favourite carols - Age 7 to 13yrs - KS2  

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Theme - Christmas, celebration of the birth of Jesus

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Content - Three classics ideal for schools and choirs - traditional favourites for a Christmas carol concert.

• Ding Dong Merrily On High
• Good King Wenceslas
• While Shepherds Watched

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These carols are from our popular 'Sing Carols' CD 

Three Christmas songs - Age: 3 to 7 yrs - Early Years, KS1  

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Theme - Christmas, celebration of the birth of Jesus, Nativity

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Content - Three sweet Christmas songs, ideal for inclusion in an infant nativity.  The first two are extremely catchy, and particularly popular with this age group.  The third song is a lovely setting of the traditional classic 'Away In A Manger', a perennial favourite for the crib scene. 

• Dancing About In The Straw
• Follow That Star
• Away In A Manger

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'Dancing About In The Straw' is featured in the best-selling 'Wriggly Nativity'

'Follow That Star' is featured in our song collection 'Sing Christmas'

Three Christmas songs - Age: 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  

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Themes - the Christmas Story, three wise men, Nativity, excitement, anticipation

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Content - Three great songs for juniors to sing at Christmas concerts. The first considers the different stories that are told at Christmas time, stories of Santa and Rudolph, the 'narrative' of the commercial Christmas season, and the story of Jesus' birth in a place where there is 'no tinsel there at all'.  The second song is a quirky one, sung from the point of view of one the camels carrying the three wise men; the third is a song to express excited anticipation of Christmas festivities. 
The simple harmony and counterpoint parts in these songs make them a useful addition to school choir repertoire. 

• Tell Me A Story
• Melchior's Camel
• Come On Christmas

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These songs come from the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Three Christmas Songs - age 7 to 12 - KS2  

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Theme - Christmas, joy, Nativity, praise, love, giving

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Content - 'Bells Ring Out' is a joyful celebration of the birth of Jesus. 'Gabriel's Message' is a beautiful song about the annunciation, expressing joy at the blessing that Mary is given, to bear the Son of God. 'Christmas Gold' is about waking up on Christmas morning, and the true 'gold' of Christmas being to do with giving and love.  

Three excellent songs, each with simple harmony and counterpoint parts that make them a valuable addition to school choir repertoire.

• Bells Ring Out
• Gabriel's Message
• Christmas Gold

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'Bells Ring Out' is featured in the cantata 'Bells Ring Out'
'Gabriel's Message' is featured in the cantata 'One Bright Star'
'Christmas Gold' is featured in the song collection 'Sing Christmas'

Three Christmas Songs - Age 5 to 8 - KS1  

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Theme - Christmas, Santa Claus, anticipation, Nativity, three wise men, light, hope 

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Content - Three adorable songs for this age group to sing, all of which have proved firm favourites in many schools!  'Wonderful Father Christmas' has a Disney feel to it, and expresses the excitement of anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus with lots of gifts. 'Bumping Up And Down On A Camel' is a great song to include in a Nativity presentation, guaranteed to raise a smile!  Finally, 'Shine Away' is a lovely song about the light and hope that Christmas brings to the world. 

• Wonderful Father Christmas
• Bumping Up And Down On A Camel
• Shine Away

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Wonderful Father Christmas is from 'A Christmas Recipe'
Bumping Up And Down On A Camel is from 'A Wriggly Nativity'
Shine Away is from 'Jesus' Christmas Party'

Can You See The Bright Star Shining   by Nick Perrin  -  5 to 10 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, the Christmas star, celebration

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Content – ‘This is what we’ve been waiting for: Christmas come tonight!’  A lovely upbeat song for the ‘angels and shepherds’ scene in a Nativity – very catchy!

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Can You See The Bright Star Shining   is taken from the Nativity musical ‘Little Angel Gets Her Wings’

Can't You Hear Me Knocking by Nick Perrin - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (2m 26s)

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Theme - Christmas, homelessness, poverty, compassion

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Content - This poignant song from Nick Perrin appeals for us all to take care of the poor, unhappy and lonely at Christmas time. A great song to pull the heartstrings, and works as a good contrast to upbeat celebration songs, particularly helpful if you are doing a fundraising concert. 

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'Can't You Hear Me Knocking' from the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Christmas - There's Lots To Get Done  By Sarah Baker - 6 to 9 yrs - KS1, KS2  (1m 12s)
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Theme - Christmas preparations, a busy time
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Content - As the title suggests, this song is all about getting ready for Christmas!  Festive food, Christmas crackers, etc. Upbeat and easy to learn.
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From the musical - 'Magical Christmas Journey'

Christmas Gold by Ruth Kenward - 7 to 11yrs. - (1m 49s)

Christmas Is Here   by John Gleadall  -  7 to 11 yrs 

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Theme – Christmas, celebration in every generation.

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Content –  An exceptionally Christmassy song!  Very effective divided chorus singing, easy to teach and learn, ‘Christmas Is Here’  is a light hearted and fun favourite with many in this age group. 

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Christmas Is Here   is taken from the songbook ‘Here Comes Christmas’ 

Christmas Joy  By Helen Mitchell  - 7 to 13yrs - KS2, KS3  (2m 41s)

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Theme - The excitement and joy that Christmas brings, celebration of Jesus' birth, winter

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Content - This song has an exceptionally Christmassy ‘feel’ in both lyrics and music, so makes a great addition to an end of term concert.  A wintery scene is set as the backdrop for Christmas shopping, and the song ends with Christmas stockings hanging by a warm fireside glow and a sparkling Christmas tree – all with the aim of celebrating a special birth. The harmony parts make this song very suitable for choir use.

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'Christmas Joy' features in the songbook  'Here Comes Christmas'

Come And Build A Snowman by Judy Lown - 3 to 7 yrs - Early Years, KS1  (1m 11s)

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Theme - Winter, snow, snowmen

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Content - A very simple song about building snowmen - and slipping and sliding about in the process!  

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Come And Build A Snowman  is from the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Come On Christmas by Ruth Kenward - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (1m 48s)

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Theme - Christmas, excitement, anticipation

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Content -  This perennial favourite is full of energy and excitement, expressing children’s impatience for Christmas Eve to arrive and for the Christmas lights to shine.  It's so exciting to think about that they can hardly breathe!  But why's it taking so long to come?
With simple harmony/counterpoint (optional) this is a great song for junior choirs.

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Lyrics sample

Come on Christmas,
Why don’t you hurry along?
(Come on Christmas, come on Christmas)
Come on Christmas,
Why’s it taking you so long?
(Come on Christmas, come on Christmas)
I’m so excited I can hardly breathe,
'Cos now it’s December,
Now it’s Christmas Eve...
Oh - come on Christmas,
I’ve been waiting so long.

So exciting you can feel it in the air,
It’s coming closer all the time.
Look around, you can see it everywhere -
Christmas lights are gonna
Shine, shine, shine!

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 'Come On Christmas' features in a musical about the importance of giving at Christmas: 'Miracle Child' and the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Come On!   by Sarah Baker  -  5 to 9 yrs  
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Theme – Celebration at Christmas – move your body

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Content –  An irresistible song to celebrate Christmas, full of energy and life.  Easy to learn – and movement is a must!  There's an easy key change into the last verse, with a clear cue to help everyone to pitch correctly in the new key. A lively item for a Christmas concert, that will have all the singers bopping about and enjoying themselves!  

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Come On!  is taken from the musical ‘Magical Christmas Journey’

Dancing About In The Straw by Peter Fardell - 5 to 7 yrs - KS1  (1m 54s)

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Theme - Christmas, Nativity, Manger song

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Content - All the animals in the stable at Bethlehem are dancing with excitement to see the baby boy in the manger: cows, donkeys and chickens are all dancing like they've never danced before.  Lively and full of character, with some nice animal sound effects!  Ideal for inclusion in a DIY nativity.

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Dancing About In The Straw from the musical 'A Wriggly Nativity'

Ding Dong Merrily On High - trad. (arr. Gerry Page) - 9 to 13 yrs - KS2, KS3  (2m 38s)

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Theme - Traditional Christmas, Carol concerts, Nativity

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Content - The arrangement, with its very hooky counterpoint part, brings a whole new appeal to a traditional favourite.  Ideal for young choirs to sing at Christmas.

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Ding Dong Merrily On High is from 'Sing Carols'  (CD & Lyrics sheet)

Donkey On A Journey by Ruth Kenward & Caroline Kimber  -  7 to 10 yrs   

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Theme – Nativity, Mary rides a donkey from Galilee to Bethlehem, Christmas
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Content – a very hooky donkey song that is always popular with this age group, because the lyrics tell the story so vividly, the melody is so catchy and the backing arrangement is so appealing.  This song also refers to the old legend of animals kneeling down in the stable to honour Jesus’ birth.  There's an easy and attractive key change half way through the song, with a simple one-note link to help singers move confidently into the new key.

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Donkey Plodding by Peter Fardell  -  4 to 7 yrs 

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Theme – Nativity: Mary rides on the donkey to Bethlehem, Christmas, animals

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Content – a donkey song that’s full of character, with a melody that cleverly echoes the donkey’s braying sound.  Always popular with this age group, because it has such a catchy tune! 

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Everyone’s Asleep   by Roger Parsley  -  5 to 10 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, the stable at Bethlehem, waiting, Christmas

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Content – This simple, peaceful song sets the scene for the Nativity, with everyone in Bethlehem fast asleep, the lights all turned down in the darkened town.  The world awaits the imminent birth of Jesus.  Mary and Jesus are just coming down the road…  A lovely, unusual song that creates an expectant hush.

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Everyone’s Asleep   is taken from the Nativity musical ‘Jesus’ Christmas Party’

'Everyone's In the Stable' by Ruth & John Kenward - 6 to 9 yrs - KS1, KS2  (1m 32s)

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Theme - Nativity, manger scene, celebration

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Content - Everyone's in the stable - shepherds, angels, donkeys, cows, sheep... and the bells will ring: 'ding, dong, ding!'  A very joyful, catchy and effective song to celebrate the birth of Jesus, perfect for this age group.  There is an infectious energy about the music that will quickly make it a firm favourite - enjoy! 

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This song features in infant Christmas musical 'I-Spy Christmas'

Everything You Give by Ruth Kenward - 6 to 9 yrs - KS1, KS2  (1m 47s)

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Theme - Christmas, Jesus, nativity, giving

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Content -   A song that reflects upon the baby in the manger: ‘Everything you give with love, you give to Him.  Everything you do with love, you do for Him - ’cos He is love.’  If you're looking for a gentle Christmas song for this age group that offers a fresh approach, 'Everything You Give' may be the simple, beautiful and unusual song you need!

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'Everything You Give' features in the nativity musical 'Babushka'

Adrian Pearson - Age 5 to 9 yrs - KS2  (2m 50s)

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Theme - The journey to Bethlehem, nativity

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Content - Five little angels, four sleepy shepherds, three very wise men, and two more (Mary and Joseph) are all on the way to Bethlehem.  When they get there, one little baby (Jesus!) is born!  An easy counting song for Christmas, with the option of building up into three parts in each verse making this ideal for infant or lower junior choir. 

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This song features in the songbook 'Here Comes Christmas'

Follow That Star by Judy Lown - 5 to 7 yrs - KS1  (1m 39s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, the magi.

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Content - The three kings are travelling to Bethlehem:  ‘Keep on travelling. Got to follow that star.’  This lively song is very easy to teach and guaranteed to go down well with infants, making it a great choice for inclusion in a DIY nativity.

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This song features in the songbook 'Sing Christmas'

Gabriel's Message by Robert Legg & Stella Vassiliou - 7 to 13 yrs - KS2, KS3  (3m 30s)

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Theme - Christmas, Annunciation, Nativity, joy

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Content - Gabriel tells Mary that she is to have God’s child.  Beautifully written, with a lovely melody and simple harmonies, this is a great piece to perform at Christmas.  Ideal for young choirs and carol concerts, with verse one being an excellent solo opportunity (Angel Gabriel).

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Gabriel's Message from the cantata 'One Bright Star'

'Glory To God' by Gerry Page & Ruth Kenward - 7 to 13 years - KS2, KS3  (2m 12s)

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Theme - Christmas, celebrating the birth of Jesus, joy, praise, gospel

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Content - This song is ideal for the shepherds’ scene in a nativity, as the angels bring the news. Hallelujah!  The song is very simple to learn, and with its rousing gospel feel, children find it very uplifting to sing. One of our singers described it as making her feel ‘bubbly inside’! 
While even the youngest of children can sing the main melody, the optional second and third parts are very easy to learn and exciting for older children to sing.

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This song features in the songbook 'Here Comes Christmas'

'Glory To God' by Gerry Page & Ruth Kenward   5-7 years   (2m 12s)

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Theme - Christmas, celebrating the birth of Jesus, joy, praise

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Content - This song is ideal for the shepherds’ scene in a nativity, as the angels bring the news. Hallelujah!  The song is easy to learn and - with its rousing gospel feel - children find it very uplifting to sing.  One of our singers described it as making her feel ‘bubbly inside’! 

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This song features in the musical 'Noisy Nativity'

Good King Wenceslas - traditional (arr. Gerry Page) - 9 to 13 yrs - KS2, KS3  (2m 20s)

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Theme - Traditional Christmas carol, giving to the poor

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Content - The popular Christmas carol that tells the story of King Wenceslas, who goes out to give alms to the poor, despite the dreadful weather.  A classic for inclusion in carol concerts, which benefits from the perky instrumental arrangement that gives it fresh life.

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Good King Wenceslas from 'Sing Carols' (CD & Lyrics booklet)

Good News  by Naine Page - 5 to 9 yrs  (1m 42s)
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Theme – News of Jesus' birth, Christmas
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Content - A simple, feel-good Christmas song, in which the angels proclaim the news of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, God's only Son, the promised one, 'born under heaven's light'.

This song is from the nativity show 'Little Star's Story'

I Saw Three Ships - trad. (arr. Gerry Page) 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (2m 03s)

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 Theme - Christmas, sailing ships, Mary, Jesus, Bethlehem

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Content - The popular Christmas carol that talks about ships sailing into Bethlehem (although that’s poetic licence, as the nearest body of water to Bethlehem is the Dead Sea, 20 miles away!)   'All the bells in heaven shall ring, on Christmas Day, on Christmas Day.'  Set to a nicely toe-tapping folk music arrangement. 

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This song also features in the CD 'Sing Carols' 

I'm A Little Donkey  by Gavin Millar - 4 to 7 yrs - KS1  (1m 50s)

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Theme - Christmas, Nativity, donkey

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Content - A very cute song that gives a donkey's perspective on the 'fuss' surrounding the Nativity!  He just wants to eat his hay, but there's something in the way: there's a baby in the manger!  The donkey finds the whole thing a bit of an imposition.  However, once the donkey hears of the journey to Egypt he perks up. He's going to be carrying Mary and the baby - and he'll get a meal at last!  

I'm Waiting  by Veronica Clark - 5 to 7 yrs - KS1  (1m 36s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, shepherd’s song, patience

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Content - A gentle song expressing a shepherd's anticipation of a long-awaited royal birth. He's waited for many years and it's taken a lot of faith, so he hopes he won't be wrong!  Ideal for inclusion in a DIY nativity.  

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'I'm Waiting' features in the nativity musical 'The Raggedy King'

If You Don't Know The Way by John Gleadall - age 7 to 13 yrs - KS2, KS3  (3m 16s)

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Theme - Christmas, Jesus, Nativity, spiritual journey

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Content - The story of the nativity told in a fresh, original way that points people towards Jesus now.  ‘If you feel lost at Christmas time … follow the shining star!’  Ideal for young choirs and carol concerts, with very simple harmony and counterpoint.

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'If You Don't Know The Way' features in songbook 'Come On Christmas'

It Snowed In The Night by Ruth Kenward & Gerry Page - age 5 to 7 yrs - KS1  (2m 12s)

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Theme - Winter, snow, excitement, weather, seasons

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Content - The excitement of opening your curtains to find that it’s snowed overnight!  Better get your warmest clothes on - it's time for a snowball fight!  A song that infants will love to sing in wintry weather.

It Snowed In The Night from the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

It'll Soon Be Christmas by Ruth Kenward - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (1m 41s)

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Theme - Christmas celebration, excitement, anticipation

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Content - ‘Christmas light makes day of night…’   All around the town it's bright. Something's in the air tonight!  An exuberant, energy-filled song to express the joy of anticipating Christmas, parties, fun and laughter...  A song full of Christmas joy and sparkle! 

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'It'll Soon Be Christmas'features in both the musical 'Five Gold Rings' and the songbook 'Sing Christmas'

It’s A Donkey  by John and Ruth Kenward  -  3 to 6 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, Mary and Joseph, donkey, Bethlehem, Christmas

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Content – The song tells the story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, with Mary riding on a donkey.  This is a song full of character and always popular with this age group, with its catchy melody that cleverly echoes the donkey’s braying sound.   

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It’s A Donkey  is taken from the Nativity musical ‘I-Spy Christmas’ 

Knock On Another Door  by Peter Fardell  -  4 to 7 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity: Mary and Joseph find no room at the inn in Bethlehem, Christmas

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Content – Extremely catchy, this song is a favourite to accompany the ‘no room at the inn’ part of the Nativity story.  Well-paced and very easy to follow, which is helpful for children playing the parts of Mary and Joseph as they move from one inn-keeper to another.

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Knock On Another Door  is taken from the Nativity musical ‘A Wriggly Nativity’ 

Let's Go  by Nick Perrin - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (1m 43s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, anticipation, spiritual journey

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Content - An energetic song about heading in the direction of Bethlehem, both literally and figuratively.  ‘Celebrate the holy birth, hope once more for peace on Earth.’  A great song to end a Christmas carol concert, as it also wishes its audience 'Happy New Year'.

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'Let's Go' also features in the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Lots and Lots Of People   by Gerry Page & Ruth Kenward  -  3 to 7 yrs  

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Theme – Nativity, no room at the inn, Christmas.

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Content –  Bethlehem is very busy, with lots of people running around, all looking for a place to stay.  A simple action song, very catchy, which even very young children find easy to learn. 

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Lots and Lots Of People   is taken from the musical ‘Noisy Nativity’

Magical Christmas Journey   by Sarah Baker  -  5 to 9 yrs  

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Theme – Nativity, following the star, Christmas

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Content –  Who’s coming with us to find out where the star will lead us?  A very catchy song, full of energy, about setting off on a journey of discovery. 

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Magical Christmas Journey   is taken from the musical ‘Magical Christmas Journey’ 

Mary, Joseph, On The Way To Bethlehem
By Gerry Page & Ruth Kenward  - 3 to 6 yrs - Early Years, KS1  (2m 3s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, donkey

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Content - A very simple song for young children, that describes the donkey ride to Bethlehem (with plenty of clip-clopping and a few eeyores!)

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From the musical - 'Noisy Nativity'

Melchior's Camel  by John Gleadall - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (3m 31s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, spiritual journey

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Content - The journey to Bethlehem, from the point of view of the camel belonging to Melchior, one of the three wise men. ‘It’s all right for him!’ says the camel, grumpy about the long journey. But even he picks up the joyful atmosphere when they reach their destination…  

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Melchior's Camel features in the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Miracle Child by John & Ruth Kenward - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (2m 29s)

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Theme - Christmas, birth of Jesus, nativity, time passing
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Content - Time moves on but around the world a 2000 year old story remains strong. 'Across the world we remember that time so long ago, when there were angels singing, shepherds praying, kings all kneeling down to honour a child, a miracle child.'  A reflective song with an unusual approach.  A good song for junior choir and carol concerts, as there are simple but effective harmonies (optional).
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Lyrics sample

Time goes so fast, time goes so slow.
Is it really two thousand years ago
A baby lay in a stable
Who still can move us so?
A story begins, a story grows,
For hundreds of lifetimes it flows:
Across the world we remember
That time so long ago when there were:

Angels singing, shepherds praying,
Kings all kneeling down to honour Him,
Angels singing, shepherds praying,
Kings all kneeling down to honour a child,
A miracle child.

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 'Miracle Child' comes from the musical by the same name: 'Miracle Child'

My Feet Want To Dance   by Ruth Kenward  -  5 to 11 yrs  
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Theme – Spreading joy, sharing, feeling full of life, celebration

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Content – this is a delightfully exuberant song, guaranteed to lift spirits!  It is written in order to help children celebrate life and generate joy – and to encourage them to spread it.  The song modulates half way through, but with a linking phrase to make the key change easy to follow, even for very young singers.  Ideal for PSHE and assembly purposes, or for celebrating a special occasion. 

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My Feet Want To Dance  is taken from the Nativity musical ‘Babushka’ 

My Hands Are Freezing  by Veronica Clark  -  3 to 6 yrs  
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Theme – cold, winter, body temperature, weather, seasons
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Content – a very simple action song about feeling cold!  Suitable for early years and KS1 as part of learning about ‘my body’.  Exceptionally easy to learn!

‘My Hands Are Freezing’ is taken from our endearing nativity musical for KS1 – ‘The Raggedy King’. 

My King by Ruth kenward - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (2m 46s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, shepherds, spiritual journey, worship

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Content - A beautifully lyrical song for a nativity performance, sung as if by a shepherd boy at the time of Jesus’ birth.  The boy describes his long journey to Bethlehem and declares his devotion to his King. 

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'My King' features in the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Now It's Time For Christmas  by Helen Mitchell - 7 to 11yrs - KS2  (2m 15s)

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Theme - Christmas, joy, excitement, birth of Jesus

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Content - This deliciously Christmassy ballad that combines the ‘feel’ of a contemporary winter celebration with the recollection of the birth of Jesus thousands of years ago. The first verse focuses upon Christmas decorations, streets full of people doing their Christmas shopping and the sound of carols in the air, but also reminds us to think of that first Christmas in a stable far away.  The second verse reverses the thinking, beginning with the events at Bethlehem, then coming back to the present day, with Christmas trees, Christmas cake, and the conclusion that it's a time to give thanks for all God's blessings.

The lovely harmony parts and Christmassy feel make this song particularly suitable for choir use.

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This song is also featured in the songbook 'Here Comes Christmas'

On That Night   by John and Ruth Kenward  -  4 to 7 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, angels and shepherds, birth of Jesus, Christmas

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Content – On a bright, starlit night, the angels bring good news to some shepherds:  ‘Good new!  Christ is born for you!’ 
An easy-to-learn song for the ‘angels and shepherds’ scene in the Nativity, .  

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On That Night  is taken from the mini-musical ‘A Little Nativity’

On The Road To Bethlehem   by Nick Perrin  -  5 to 10 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, Christmas angels, church bells, birth of Jesus

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Content – With its upbeat, Christmassy feel, this song invites the audience in to the Christmas story. An ideal opening number for any Nativity performance.

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On The Road To Bethlehem   is taken from the Nativity musical ‘Little Angel Gets Her Wings’

Once There Were Three Wise Men   by John and Ruth Kenward  -  4 to 7 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, three wise men, Christmas, birth of Jesus

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Content – Three wise men, watching the night sky, see a star pass by – and they know they must follow it.  So they jump on the camel train to find a newborn king!  A cute song during which the journey of the magi can be re-enacted. 

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Once There Were Three Wise Men   is taken from the mini-musical ‘A Little Nativity’ 

One Little Boy In The Straw   by John and Ruth Kenward  -  4 to 7 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, stable scene, Jesus in the manger, Christmas joy, counting

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Content –  A simple cumulative song to gather the whole cast for the finale of a Nativity performance, ending with: five happy angels, four happy shepherds, three happy wise men, two happy parents, one little boy in the straw – and a whole lot of joy!

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One Little Boy In The Straw   is taken from the mini-musical ‘A Little Nativity’ 

One Night by Simon Donlon & Colm Flanagan - 7 to 12 yrs  (3m 50s)
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Theme – Angels appear to shepherds with news of Jesus' birth
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Content -  A lovely set piece for young choirs, guaranteed to get toes tapping!  Sets the hillside scene, shepherds watching over their sheep and angels appearing with great news. Simple and very effective harmony and counterpoint, with modulation adding great uplift for the last verse.  

This song is from the cantata 'One Night In Bethlehem'

Rat, Tat, Rat-A-Ta-Tat  by Nick Perrin - 6 to 9 yrs - KS1, KS2  (2m 38s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, innkeepers’ song

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Content - Joseph and Mary knock on three innkeepers’ doors.  They’re turned away by the first two, but offered a stable by the third.  Very easy to learn and always popular with this age group!  A great choice for inclusion in a DIY nativity.

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This song features in the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

Shine Away by Roger Parsley - 6 to 11yrs - KS1, KS2  (3m 27s)

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Theme - Christmas, hope, love, light

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Content - A perennial favourite in many schools this lovely song is about the light and hope that Christmas brings to the world. 'Shine Away' is ideal for carol concerts, and makes a great set piece for junior choir.  It's also very suitable as the final song for a DIY nativity.

This song features in the musical 'Jesus' Christmas Party' and the songbook 'Sing Christmas'

Show The World by Nairne Page - 5 to 9 yrs  (1m 44s)
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Theme – celebrate the birth of Jesus by shining bright
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Content - A wonderfully energetic and uplifting song to celebrate the birth of Jesus.  All the stars in the sky celebrate a special night by shining brightly. "We're never too little to shine our light!"  

This song is from the nativity show 'Little Star's Story'.

Silent Night At Thy Birth  by Anita Gooda - 9 -13 yrs - KS2, KS3 (3m 21s)

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Theme - Christmas, Nativity, Jesus, worship
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Content - A beautiful new approach to the ‘Silent Night’, with a lilting new melody that gives a totally fresh feel to the traditional lyrics.  With wonderfully well-written harmony and counterpoint parts that are simple to learn, this song makes an excellent addition to school choir repertoire for Christmas. 

From the Songbook 'Here Comes Christmas'

Sing A Lullaby   by Nick Perrin  -  5 to 9 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, manger scene, Christmas

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Content – A peaceful song for the manger scene in the stable at Bethlehem, with a lovely ‘middle 8’ section during which the shepherds and three wise men offer their gifts to baby Jesus. 

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Sing A Lullaby   is taken from the Nativity musical ‘Little Angel Gets Her Wings’

Sing The Love  by Simon Donlon, Colm Flanagan & Ruth Kenward - 7 to adult  (2m 33s)
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Theme – celebrating love on Christmas Day, nativity 
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Content - A beautiful two-part song, celebrating Love coming into the world. On a dark and drowsy night, a shining light appears to shepherds as angels tell of peace on Earth.  Although it's not a long song, it really gives young choirs something to get their teeth into, including a rousing Hallelujah section at the end.

This song is from the cantata 'One Night In Bethlehem'

Sing Ye Hosanna by Gavin Reid - 7 to 12 yrs - KS2  (3m 24s)

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Theme - Christmas, celebration, nativity

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Content - Joyful, exuberant and with an uplifting Gospel feel, this is a fantastic song for larger choirs in particular, inviting the nations of the earth to share the good news of Jesus, born in poverty for all of us.  Hallelujah sister!  Alleluia brother!  All together we are family.  

This song features in the Christmas cantata 'Bells Ring Out'

Sleep, Little Child by Simon Donlon & Colm Flanagan - 7 to 11  (1m 53s)
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Theme – Christmas, wonder at newborn baby Jesus

Content - A gentle, reflective song, pondering how this 'child of wonder' born in a stable will grow to be the saviour of the world.  Simple, lilting and peaceful, with a lyric that captures the moment just after Jesus' birth in a very effective way.

This song is from the cantata 'One Night In Bethlehem'.

Snow Day by Ruth Kenward & Richard Neil - 7 to 11yrs  (1m 52s)
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Theme – It's snowing - will the school be closed?  Weather, winter, seasons

Content - As snowflakes drift down, children are always eager for a 'snow day' - everyone wishes for their school to be closed so they can get out and build a snowman, or have a snowball fight!  Full of fun, and very popular with junior age children.

This song is from the Songbook 'Songs For All Seasons' which also contains 19 other songs.

Snowflake Serenade by Peter Fardell  -  5 to 8 yrs 

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Theme – snow, winter, snowflakes, weather, cold
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Content - A gentle song to conjure up a snowy day.  As millions of snowflakes drift down, whirling as they fall, it’s almost like a dance: a snowflake serenade.   Very attractive as part of an assembly on the theme of winter, and ideal for infant dance purposes.

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Tell Me A Story by Ruth Kenward - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (2m 33s)

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Theme - Christmas, stories, Santa Claus, nativity

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Content - What stories do we tell at Christmas?  The song begins with stories of Santa Claus and then moves on to tv shows full of tinsel and celebrities, but ends with a complete contrast: a quiet stable on a starlit night. ‘No tinsel there at all. Tell me the story that I need to know.’  An unusual approach for a Christmas song - and very effective. With optional harmonies, this makes a good addition to repertoire for school choir.

This song also features in the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

The Echo Carol by Adrian Pearson - 7 to 11 yrs - KS2  (2m 21s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, joy

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Content - Tells about the birth of Jesus and asks 'Will you sing for this boy?' A very effective Christmas song for junior choir, which has an echoing two-part chorus that is simple to grasp.  There is modulation into the final chorus, giving the song a beautiful lift. Ideal for Christmas concerts and young choirs.

From the Songbook 'Here Comes Christmas'

The Rocking Carol  trad. (arr. Gerry Page) 5 to 7 yrs - KS1  (1m 48s)

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Theme - Christmas, Jesus, nativity, manger song 

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Content - This traditional Christmas carol is a very sweet lullaby, sung to Jesus in the manger. ‘We will rock you, rock you, rock you.’  Translated from a traditional Czech carol.  An excellent manger song for a DIY nativity.

This song also features in 'Sing Carols' (CD & Lyrics booklet)

There's A Stable by Ruth Kenward - 5 to 8 yrs - KS1, KS2  (1m 32s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, transformation, stable song

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Content - This song is from the nativity musical ‘Babushka’, about a tatty old stable full of cobwebs, which is suddenly blazing with light when a special baby is born. A lovely, picturesque song for infants at Christmas time, that paints a vivid picture of the scene in the stable.

This song features in the musical 'Babushka'

There’s A Star In The Sky by Judy Lown  -  5 to 8 yrs  
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Theme – nativity, following the star, Christmas
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Content –  A new star has appeared in the sky as a sign of Jesus’ birth.  Where does it lead?  Who knows where it is going?  ‘Follow and you’ll see!’   This is a simple and very catchy song, ideal for a retelling of the nativity story.

‘There’s A Star In The Sky’ is taken from the ever-popular nativity musical for KS1 – ‘A Tale Of Two Birthdays. 

There’s A Baby In The Manger   by Nairne Page  -  4 to 7 yrs  
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Theme – Nativity, stable scene, birth of Jesus, Christmas joy

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Content –  A gentle, picturesque song to accompany the manger scene.  Very sweet, with words that set the scene beautifully.

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There’s A Baby In The Manger   is taken from the musical ‘Little Star’s Story’ 

Three Kings From The East by Roger Parsley - 6 to 9 yrs - KS1, KS2  (2m 35s)

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Theme - Christmas, three wise men, nativity.

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Content - The journey of the magi towards Bethlehem, with probably the most distinctly Eastern flavour backing we’ve come across!  An excellent song to include in a DIY nativity.

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This song features in the musical 'Jesus' Christmas Party'

We Kings Have Journeyed Far by Nick Perrin - 6 to 8 yrs - KS1, KS2  (2m 25s)

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Theme - Christmas, the three wise men, nativity

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Content - The journey of the magi towards Bethlehem, with a wonderfully Oriental motif between the verses!  A great choice as the three kings song in a DIY nativity, as it is easy to learn and goes down well with this age group.

This song also features in the songbook 'Come On Christmas'

We Three Kings  trad. (arr. Gerry Page) - 7 to 12 yrs - KS2  (3m 53s)

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Theme - Christmas, the magi, nativity

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Content - An oriental-flavoured version of the traditional Christmas carol about the three wise men as they journey to Bethlehem, following a star.  The 2-3 part harmonies in the chorus make this a good choice for young choirs, with solo opportunities offered by the verses.  Ideal for carol concerts. 

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This song is also featured in 'Sing Carols' CD

We Wish You A Merry Christmas - (trad.)  Includes two versions, a) the full version and b) a one-verse version.  Age 5 to 12 - KS1, KS2

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Theme - Christmas, New Year.  

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Content - the traditional song with which to extend good wishes at Christmas!  This download contains two versions.  The full version (taken from 'Sing Carols')  is funkier and more suitable for older children, or infants with particular panache!  The shorter version (from  'I - SPY Christmas')  is gentler and more suitable for younger voices.

Welcome The Baby  by Sarah Baker - 6 to 9 yrs - KS1, KS2  (1m 52s)
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Theme - Christmas, nativity, birth of Jesus
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Content - A rousing echo-response song for the manger scene in the nativity story, to welcome the new-born Jesus. A simple song that’s easy to sing with gusto!
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This song features in the musical - 'Magical Christmas Journey'

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks   Trad. (arr. Gerry Page) - 7 to 13 yrs - KS2, KS3  (2m 17s)

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Theme - Christmas, nativity, shepherds

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Content - This refreshingly different arrangement brings a Celtic feel to one of the most popular of traditional Christmas carols.  The optional harmonies offer great possibilities for choirs.

This song also features in 'Sing Carols' CD

Wonderful Father Christmas by Peter Fardell - 5 to 7 yrs - KS1  (1m 36s)

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Theme - Christmas, Santa Claus, anticipation, excitement

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Content - A cute, feel-good song about anticipating the arrival of Father Christmas, and being unable to sleep on Christmas Eve!  An irresistible, toe-tapping little number, very cute and appealing for this age group.

This song features in the musical 'Christmas Recipe'