This anonymous Irish carol dates from the 15th or 16th century. The lyrical and partly modal nature of the melody inspired this quasi-medieval setting. The drum part, if used, should ideally be played by an Irish bodhran, though a tenor drum would also work. This was written in 2021 for the Glenwood Moravian Trombone Choir’s (Madison, WI) Advent Concert. It is dedicated to my friend and longtime member of the group, Caren Young, who suggested this gentle and lovely melody to me.
Mike Allsen
February 2022
