The organist and composer John Goss began his musical life as a boy chorister at Chapel Royal in his home town of London.  His studies under Attwood gave him his first links with St Paul’s Cathedral, where he became organist in 1838 after the death of his teacher and friend, and many of the anthems and hymn tunes for which he is remembered were composed for special services in the cathedral.  He was knighted by Queen Victoria in 1872.

The beautiful hymn See Amid the Winter’s Snow (words by Edward Caswall) is customarily sung at Christmas church services; here the wordless flute ensemble mimic the sound of the traditional church organ over three verses, beginning with a quiet duet and becoming increasingly expressive towards the expansive final refrain.

2-3 mins approx

Elementary to intermediate

PB029

Contents

One score and the following separate parts:

Flute 1

Flute 2

Flute 3

Flute 4

Bb Clarinet (optional)

Reviews

Review from Richard, adult player (and owner of more than ten titles)

"As an amateur flute player with a monthly flute choir, I was lucky enough to come across Pipeblower Publishing and Zoë Booth’s extensive repertoire of music for four, five or more flutes- a gift from heaven.  Our flute choir have enjoyed Cafe Tango, Autumn from The Four Seasons, Moon River by Mancini and White Christmas (among others!). I love carols so The First Nowell for four flutes is a must for me, and See Amid The Winter’s Snow."