Caroline Hewitt, BIF Artistic Administrator has chosen this set of classical pieces for Christmas.
Born into a musical family, Caroline was asked ‘which instrument would you like to play’ at quite an early age. Music and performance have been her life ever since. Having graduated from the Royal Academy of Music, she started her career as an Orchestra Manager with the English Chamber Orchestra, moving up north to join Manchester Camerata then the Northern Chamber Orchestra. Caroline has been a member of the Buxton International Festival team since 2018.
Listen to each piece individually by clicking on the links below. Alternatively you can enjoy the full playlist here.
Kate Rusby – The Holly and the Ivy
This is one of my favourite carols, sung in her own interpretation by one of my favourite singers, folk singer Kate Rusby. We always listen to Kate Rusby’s Christmas album when decorating our tree and making mince pies!
Listen to Kate Rusby – The Holly and the Ivy
The Manchester Carols – Sasha Johnson Manning/Carol Ann Duffy, performed by The Manchester Carollers and the Northern Chamber Orchestra
I was lucky enough to be involved in the recording and world premiere of this piece, and don’t think it is performed enough! My favourite movement is no 10 (A New Boy Born), which, for me, is what Christmas is all about.
Death by Triple Fiddle – Joshua Bell, Sam Bush, Edgar Meyer, Mike Marshall
I remember the first time I heard this and could not believe my ears! I never tire of listening to this bonkers piece of music, performed expertly by some very talented (and surprising) musicians.
Listen to Death by Triple Fiddle – Joshua Bell, Sam Bush, Edgar Meyer, Mike Marshall