Ruth Mulligan writes: 'A Carol from Flanders is intended to evoke the despair of war, particularly through the lone voice carrying the bugle call motif in the melody, and the hope and joy of Christmas, which is embodied in the bell-like accompaniment and uplifting harmonies.'

Ruth Mulligan studied at the University of Wales, Bangor from 1994 to 1997 and graduated with a B.Mus (Hons). After completing missionary service for her church she attended Oxford Brookes University (2000-1) where she completed a PGCE in Secondary School music teaching.

Ruth married in 2001 and taught at Trinity School, Newbury and as a supply teacher in Gloucestershire until the arrival of her first child in 2003. She has taken a break from classroom teaching and is the proud mother of six children. During this time she has taught piano and violin, played and composed for weddings, and spent 4 years directing a multi-county choir at church. For five years Ruth has voluntarily directed the choir at the school attended by her children.