Christmas in Killarney/Here We Come A-Wassailing

for SATB Choir, Harp, Guitar, Violin and Cello

A joyous, exuberant fusion of Irish and English carols.

Complete (studio recording):

Duration: 3:30
Difficulty: Moderate (choir), Advanced (instruments)
Language: English
Minimum Voices: 4 (optimal 8-80)

"Christmas in Killarney" by John Redmond, James Cavanaugh & Frank Weldon

"Here We Come A-Wassailing" trad. English (19th c.)

Arranged by Chappell Kingsland

Wild Beautiful Choral Series (WBCS-009). Digital download; please purchase one copy for each singer. Suitable for college, church, community and professional choirs.

This arrangement serves as the opener for A Celtic Christmas, a concert-length work for choir and instrumental ensemble. “Christmas in Killarney,” popularized by Bing Crosby, meets the traditional English carol “Here We Come A-Wassailing” in a festive fusion that amplifies the joy and exuberance of the season. Both songs share a spirit of communal celebration, and this arrangement brings them together in a lively musical dialogue. Kingsland’s setting expands the material into a grand, sparkling tapestry, featuring energetic counterpoint among the voices and virtuosic instrumental writing. The result is a vibrant, kaleidoscopic celebration capturing the warmth and irrepressible spirit of Christmastime.

Premiere: December 2025 – Denver, Colorado
Strings of Brigid: Jennifer Kingsland, Chappell Kingsland, Karie Phillips, Adria Young, Crystal Schneckenburger, Kevin McFarland

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