I Heard the Bells [Alf:00-51134]

Familiar words, new melody. Ruth's cheerful a cappella setting of the yuletide text accentuates the "peace on earth" lyric, adding a harmonically rich bridge on just those words. Crisp choral "ding dong" entrances, a melodic twist in the middle, and a tuneful final descant decorate the otherwise strophic verses. Add to the festivity (and anchor the minor-key tonality) with optional tubular bells or chimes.