A new arrangement of Nöel Nouvelet by James Kennerley for SATB choir and organ. Based on the familiar text and melody of the 15th-century French carol, the work is appropriate for liturgical and concert use. Inspired by the exotic harmonies of the mid-twentieth century French organists-composers, I wanted to write a setting that maximized the use of the organ (including the concluding toccata) and which expired the harmonic and contrapuntal possibilities suggested by the melody itself. The first verse is sung in the original French, and the subsequent verses in their familiar English translation.

It was composed for the Choir of Saint Paul’s, Harvard Square, and was first performed by them in December 2022. One of my choristers at the time said this was his favorite piece ever, which is as good a compliment as one can receive from an 11-year-old boy!

Listen to the première performance by clicking here.

This is a digital download. You will be contacted within 24 hours with the download information. Minimum order is 5 copies. Please order the appropriate number of copies for your ensemble.

Duration: 5.5 minutes