Recitative and Carol:
The Shepherd's Tale

Use: Christmas
Required Resources: SATB choir, organ or piano
Language: English

After a recitative sung by tenor solo and choir ("A strange night it was, With the air icy and still, And the sheep huddled together Against the cold hill.") the carol begins. Using jaunty six-eight time, J. William Greene sets the words of Edith Simpson with his masterful skill at choral writing. The variety of textures in the voice parts effectively sets the text, all enhanced by a supportive but independent accompaniment, playable on either organ or piano.

The shepherd speaks to open the carol: "I took my strongest staff And striding into the night, Followed as one that dreamed, A great star's light." His travels, his sacred discovery and his homage give him comfort as he returns: "And I strode home with pride Of one who has met with Kings, While the air trembled with song And the beating of wings." In Dr. Greene's accompaniment we hear both the song and the wings!