THE CITY’S most popular carols are written by Cambridge graduates, according to a new top 10 list.

Oxford University Press, which publishes 100 Carols for Choirs, has compiled its annual top 10 list for the most popular Christmas music sold this year.

Overwhelmingly, the top 10 list is dominated by the Founder of the King’s Singers and Cambridge University graduate John Rutter.

Five of the 10 songs are either written, or composed by the choral director with fellow King’s Singer and collaborator David Willcocks.

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OUP was able to compile the list through its Music Hire Library service, which provides orchestral sets of music to over 200 orchestras and choirs from across the globe.

Oxford Music Hire Library administrator Freya Startup said: “A lot of the old classics like Hark! The Herald Angels Sing and O Come All Ye Faithful are still very popular, but there has been a real interest in Rutter’s music.

“I think it’s great that so many people are enjoying John Rutter’s carols, especially at this time of year.

“His music really brings people together.”

Other carols that made the top 10 list include O Little Town of Bethlehem and Once in Royal David’s City.

  • Carol services picture special: Pages 14-15.

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