The program always includes Carols from several ages of English and other European languages. Even in broadcast, when sung by the very British voices of that choir in that chapel they take on an ethereal tone that is not matched. However, my favorite parts are the Lessons interspersed between the Carols: the epic story of the Foretelling and Birth of Jesus is read by locals who have distinctive accents not often heard by American ears, and they are delightful. Of the Lessons, that of the Wise Men visiting Bethlehem in Matthew 2 as read by the College’s Vice Provost is my most favorite. His accent has middle-eastern undertones, and the careful consideration with which he reads belies a special familiarity with the land and culture — or so it always seemed to me.

This being the Internet Age, I looked him up and was… surprised to learn that he is Dr. Basim Musallam, Professor of Islamic Studies at King’s College. It is particularly ironic that the Wise Men from the East would come alive through the voice of a Professor of Islam, which makes it all the more special to me.

In addition to the discovery of Professor Musallam, this year also brought the story of those who wait in line for the performance. Fans from all over the world queue to wait for tickets to the best seats, the very best of which come only by waiting a couple nights prior to performance.

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at King's College Cambridge — Someday soon I shall hear it myself in person.

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