Little is known of the origins of this carol; it appears in none of the historic collections. It is however thought to originally be a folk song attributed to the ‘West Country'
Little is known of the origins of this carol; it appears in none of the historic collections. It is however thought to originally be a folk song attributed to the ‘West Country’. This link to the West Country is based on the carol’s reference to ‘figgy pudding’ a localised, seasonal dish containing raisins or plums, somewhat like the traditional Christmas Pudding. The greeting ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ is typical of the practice of ‘Wassailing’; going door to door to sing, dance and offer seasonal greetings in the hope of receiving food and drink in return.
Jock McKenzie studied trumpet at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester where he was a joint recipient of the college’s concerto prize. Since 1987 Jock has based his musical career in Hampshire, working as a freelance trumpeter, conductor, composer, arranger and brass teacher. Currently Jock holds the position of Professional Leader (Brass) for Hampshire Music Service and is the Director of the Hampshire County Youth Band. It is the mix of all of these musical roles that has led to Jock establishing a reputation as a leading creator of brass music resources, particularly in the field of education and brass ensemble music. In 2020 Jock was awarded an "Honary Fellowship of the University of Winchester" for services to music education. Currently Jock is working part-time for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; providing tuition for the Brass Teaching Module. In 2024 Jock was given the award for "Services to Youth" by Brass Bands England.
