The popular French tune of this carol first appeared as a secular dance named “Branle de L’Official”. It appeared in ‘Orchésographie’, a collection of dances published in 1589 and written by Jehan Tabouret (pen name Thoinot Arbeau). The established lyrics were written by the English composer George Ratcliffe Woodward and first published in 1924; appearing in the Cambridge Carol Book.
Jock McKenzie studied trumpet at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester where he was a joint recipient of the college’s concerto prize. Since 1987 Jock has based his musical career in Hampshire, working as a freelance trumpeter, conductor, composer, arranger and brass teacher. Currently Jock holds the position of Professional Leader (Brass) for Hampshire Music Service and is the Director of the Hampshire County Youth Band. It is the mix of all of these musical roles that has led to Jock establishing a reputation as a leading creator of brass music resources, particularly in the field of education and brass ensemble music.
