Premiered by "Gloriae Dei Cantores" at the tree-lighting at Rockefeller Center in 1995, "A Christmas Garland" is an exciting work for the Christmas season. Creating a fresh look at three well-known and beloved Christmas carols, ("Ding! Dong! merrily on high," "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly", and "Deck the Hall") Bruce Saylor writes with a masterful command of choral writing and sonorities. The combination of sensitive word setting, traditional harmonies and rhythmic excitement maskes this an immediately attractive work to both singers and listeners alike. While Dr. Saylor uses the entire vocal range in a challenging way, the work gives great satisfaction to the singers in tis expressive opportunities. "A Christmas Garland" will be a wonderful addtition to any choir's Christmas repertoire, and is especially appropriate for concert use.