Masterful Music: R.T. Legacy

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This piece was commissioned by Dr. Mary Hopper and the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music for their 2006 Christmas Festival. The first four verses contain original music, while the final two verses are settings of the traditional tune. The piece is scored for symphonic band, SATB and organ.

The first Noel, the angel did say, Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay keeping their sheep, On a cold winter's night that was so deep.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel.

They looked up and saw a star Shining in the east, beyond them far, And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night.

And by the light of that same star Three wise men came from country far; To seek for a king was their intent, And to follow the star wherever it went.

This star drew nigh to the north-west, O'er Bethlehem it took its rest, And there it did both stop and stay, Right over the place where Jesus lay.

Then entered in those wise men three, Full reverently upon their knee, And offered there in His presence Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.

Then let us all in one accord Sing praises to our heav'nly Lord, That hath made heav'n and earth of naught, And with His blood mankind hath bought.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel.