On Christmas night, with original words by Liz Cook, is aimed at small choirs which sing in unison, or school choirs of virtually any age, from upper primary level though to senior secondary choirs.

The music can be adapted, according to my suggestions in the score, to be sung entirely in unison throughout to SATB, with the interchange of male and female voices, all accompanied in the piano or organ left hand by the gentle pastoral rocking of the cradle or the steady trudging of the donkey. Set against this perpetual but tenderly-played rhythm - con tenerezza - are diatonic chords, occasionally coloured with added 7ths and 9ths, but all quite simple and accessible.

The piece would sit equally happily within a large church, cathedral or choral society setting as a simple contrast within a more demanding concert or service.

Easily learnt, easily performed and effective at all levels of musical expertise.