About the piece
A carol in three voices (alto, tenor and bass) announcing the good news of Christmas. The edition, 22 measures in 2/2, carries the three parts.
How to prepare it
It is an intermediate piece with a style of its own. In the “West gallery” tradition the melody was usually carried by the tenor, and the other voices accompanied it. The ranges are comfortable (altos C4–A4 (a major sixth), tenors G3–G4 (an octave), basses G2–C4 (an eleventh)). Rehearse the tenor with the text first, and then add the other two lines; aim for a direct, joyful sound with well-articulated consonants.
When to use it
A piece for Christmas, suitable as an entrance or closing chant.