I. The Setting - Oboe, Flute, SATB and Tenor solo 
The opening of the cantata is set in the hillsides of the country. The time is late afternoon or evening when the stars are just beginning to show in the sky. While most of the shepherds and their sheep are settling
down for the evening, we focus on two who are amusing themselves with 'pipe' and 'horn.' Eventually our 'personal narrator' joins the activities with his own description. |
Interlude One - Recitative for Baritone |
II. The Interruption - Organ solo
This section represents the following rather famous scripture: And suddenly,
there was with the angels a multitude of heavenly host, praising God, and
saying, Glory to God in the highest... A sudden 'multitude' from heaven is likely to have been frightening. |
III. Gloria Sing - SATB with Tenor (Michael Maguire)
and Baritone (Gary Holcombe)
This section is the 'multitude of angels' - singing, of course. Our
tenor is telling the story in the first person, as if he was there, and our
baritone is serving as narrator. |
Interlude Two - Recitative for Baritone |
IV. Fear Not - Soprano duet (Gale Limansky and Beverly Myers)
Realizing they had nearly scared the poor shepherds to death, a couple of
angels appeared and told them not to be afraid... Fear not, for behold I bring
you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. |
V. We Go To See - SATB
The three kings come to mind as we embark on our journey. Many
additional travelers were with the kings. Some were attendants or servants
of the kings and others were on their own following the star. I see a
bright star leading the procession of persons, some riding camels and some
walking, but all moving slowly across the horizon with a determined, methodical
rhythm. |
VI. Bethlehem City of David - Tenor and
Baritone duet
At the start of the kings' journey, the destination was unclear, as they were
inspired to follow a star in the sky. but now, with the help of our
baritone and tenor soloists, we know we are going to Bethlehem. |
VII. Lullaby - SATB
We have found the newborn Jesus lying in a manger. We gently sing him a
lullaby, since we know he is to change the world. |
VIII. I Believe - Soprano and Flute duet
Having experienced the prior events, and now seeing the baby Jesus, we make a
commitment of faith by singing I believe that He is the One. |
IX. Alleluia - SATB
As the story of the birth of Jesus is complete, a heavenly aura of atmosphere
carries us to an emotional high. Alleluia! |
X. Sing Alleluia - SATB
The Final section is more a reflection of my personal beliefs than a direct
interpretation of scripture. Go out to all the people of the world and
demonstrate good will. We don't blame, criticize, pass judgment, or
threaten - we simply demonstrate (do unto others..) Alleluia! |
