John Cartwright - Christmas Organ and Chimes (1957) Vinyl LP • Holiday

Catalog Number:

51502

Musical Styles:

1950s, Ballad, Ceremonial, Chorale, Christian, Classical Pop, Instrumental, Organum, Traditional/Vocal

Sleeve Grade:

Very Good (VG)

Record Grade:

Very Good Plus (VG+)

Condition Details:

Vinyl plays with some crackles and a few light-clicks (play-graded). Cover has a few creases near edges; scuffing, discoloration with darker discoloration spots (front/back). Inner-sleeve is Realistic logo. Spine has no text and shows harsh wear alongside a large split in the center. Heavy shelf-wear along top/bottom-edge, splits on centers of both. Wear to corners. Opening is crisp with signs of light use and divots. (Not a cut-out.)

Tracks:

1. Adeste Fidelis / It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
2. Sleepers Awake
3. O Little Town Of Bethlehem
4. The Holy Boy / The First Noel
5. Angels We Have Heard On High
6. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
7. What A Child Is This / Good King Wencelas
8. Rejoice, Rejoice Believers
9. Christians Awake
10. Joy To The World
11. Oh Come, Oh Come Emmanuel
12. Hark The Herald Angels Sing
13. Break Forth Oh Beauteous Light
14. Silent Night
15. Good Christian Men Rejoice / We Three Kings
16. Lo! How A Rose E'er Blooming
17. Away In A Manger / Jingle Bells

About The Record:

Christmas Organ and Chimes, by John Cartwright, is a collection of traditional Christmas carols performed on pipe organ with chimes, capturing the festive spirit with a nostalgic, reverent sound. Released during the mid-20th century, it reflects the era's popularity of organ and chime arrangements for holiday music, often used to evoke a warm, traditional atmosphere in homes and churches. The album features well-known carols like Silent Night and O Come, All Ye Faithful, showcasing Cartwright's skill in creating rich, resonant interpretations. While no specific hit singles are documented from this album, its tracks contributed to the broader trend of instrumental Christmas albums that were commercially successful during the holiday season. The historical significance lies in its representation of mid-20th-century holiday music trends, emphasizing instrumental arrangements that became iconic in American households.