Oxford University Press

Oxford University Press

English

Charles Bennett re-tells the Wenceslas story in verse . . . In addition, Chilcott works into the music a good number of references to the well-known carol tune. The piece is designed - and works - as an entertainment. Throughout, the music is accessible and attractive and I think that the instrumental accompaniment is highly effective. In places the music is extrovert but, pleasingly, a thoughtful tone is struck several times. That's especially true of the final movement which is, of course, a Happy Ending . . . The last movement is musically warm and contented while Bennett's words invite us to reflect upon a charitable, indeed life-saving, act on the part of the King. Earlier on there's a movement 'Thank you' . . . Yes, I admit, the music is on the sentimental side but Christmas is a season where sentiment has its place . . .