Traditional; Arranged by Elena Fortin
Musicians are always preparing music ahead of the season, so after our first snow, it is already time to get out the Christmas music! (Yes, in Canada, it sometimes snows for Hallowe’en–ugh!) I found an e-mail in my inbox, telling me about an arranging contest at Sheet Music Plus. Unfortunately, the contest deadline was in 12 hours. Fortunately, I made it. It’s always interesting to see what creativity can happen when you are under a tight deadline!
The traditional carol, The First Noël, is from the 13th or 14th Century and came out of Cornwall! A testament to its longevity, message, and melody, the carol was published in a collection of ancient Christmas carols, getting transcribed in 1823. This breathed new life into the song and I am doing my part to keep it alive!
About the arrangement
The arrangement is written for Intermediate pianists. The right hand plays in the upper treble register of the piano and begins with the main melody in the left hand. Most often, melodies are put in the right hand with harmony in the left, but flipping this around puts the melody in the “tenor” register of the piano and gives a depth to the melody.
Each repetition of the verse is altered slightly. The second verse returns the melody to the right hand, but written in chordal style. The last verse is slightly slower, and should be played with bell-like tone on the accents.
It is a very sweet, simple arrangement and will hopefully spread hope and joy as it did many years ago when the people of Cornwall would sing it in the streets to express their excitement and wonder at Christmas.
Video Performance
Purchase Information
Clicking on the link below will bring you to a new site: Sheet Music Plus. This arrangement is under copyright with the ArrangeMe program by Hal Leonard.
Sheet Music Plus – The First Noël
Sheet Music Sample
