Noel [noh-el] –
noun – a Christmas song or carol
We are all very familiar with “The First Noel” but have you ever wondered what came after that? The first specifically Christmas hymns that we know of appear in fourth century Rome. Like all Christian music of the medieval period, these were Latin hymns used specifically for liturgical purposes. Instruments were never used; all songs were performed a cappella. Christmas music was not sung outside of churches. One example of this type of hymn is “Veni Redemptor Gentium.”
Thank you, Brad! This music calls me to ponder holy mystery, to experience wonder and awe. The chamber is as much a part of the music as the voice.