In “Christmastide,” William Sandys captures the essence of Christmas through a compendium of traditional carols and songs, rendered in a lyrical style that echoes the spirit of the Victorian age. Sandys meticulously curates these musical pieces, providing an insight into the cultural and historical tapestry surrounding Christmas festivities. His work reveals both sacred and secular elements of celebration, drawing on folk traditions and religious observances, alongside sensitive annotations that enrich the text with context, elucidating the evolution of carol-singing as an integral part of English heritage. William Sandys, an antiquarian and noted musicologist of the 19th century, was deeply invested in preserving the richness of English folk music. His profound appreciation for national customs and melodies provided the impetus for collecting these carols, their melodies often traced back to earlier centuries. Sandys' expansive research into folklore and social customs during a time of great change in England resonates throughout “Christmastide,” bridging old traditions with contemporary celebrations. This delightful anthology is an essential read for scholars of music and cultural history, as well as anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Christmas traditions. Readers will find both nostalgia and joy in its pages, making it an enduring companion for the holiday season.
