ALTHOUGH I’m now a confirmed atheist, as a boy I was leading choirboy and candlesnuffer, and as a result I have a great love of Christmas Carols.
My absolute favourite is the majestic and moving German carol Silent Night (Stille nacht, heilige nacht). I was therefore appalled to hear the X Factor finalists’ excruciating rendition outside 10 Downing Street.
Rather they didn’t sing it, they warbled it.
The beauty of carols is in the clear, bell-like sound of voices singing the lyrics wholeheartedly. They should certainly not be crooned. I was embarrassed for the performers and can only hope that the audience recovers in time for Christmas.
VJ Connor, Bishop Auckland
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