Wexford Carol

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First line:

Good people all, this Christmas time

composer

Anonymous - traditional

traditional Irish carol

arranger

Desmond Earley (b1974)

author of text

Anonymous - traditional

Introduction
English

Also known as the Enniscorthy Carol, referring to the provincial Wexford town where it was collected by W H Grattan Flood (d1928), this native Irish piece dates back to the twelfth century. Its short verses focus on the scenes surrounding the birth of the Messiah heralded by the prophets as a gift from God 'to end all strife'.

The traditional Irish melody shines forth in this atmospheric setting scored for solo tenor, choir, strings and continuo. Its beguiling beauty is simply expressed throughout by the solo tenor but with the evocation of the apparition of the angel to the shepherds, the choir weaves its lines in a free rendition.

Recordings

Be all merry

University College Dublin Choral Scholars, Desmond Earley (conductor)

Studio Master: SIGCD643Download onlyStudio Master FLAC & ALAC downloads available

Fourteen gloriously over-the-top arrangements from this most versatile of choirs, some with effervescent accompaniment from the Irish Chamber Orchestra.» More