SING WE NOW OF CHRISTMAS

Music and Text: Traditional French carol
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg

“Sing We Now of Christmas” is based on a traditional French carol, “Noël nouvelet,” which dates from possibly as early as the 15th century. Although this carol gives an extended account of the Holy Nativity, it was long considered a New Year’s carol rather than a Christmas carol. New Year’s Day has, however, traditionally been part of the 12-day Christmastide celebrations that begin on December 25. When English translations of this carol began to appear in the 17th century, “Sing We Now of Christmas” became more closely associated with the celebration of Christmas itself. 

This new processional arrangement by Mack Wilberg was written especially for The Tabernacle Choir’s 2023 Christmas concert.