From the composer:

"A brilliant arrangement of the traditional English carol for SATB choir and piano or optional chamber orchestra. This piece is high in joyful energy from start to finish and certain to become a regular part of the season for years to come. "On Christmas night all Christians sing to hear the news the angels bring!"

Source: https://www.elainehagenberg.com/ehm/sussex-carol (accessed 26 Aug 2025)

About the Song:

Hagenberg's arrangement of this traditional English carol transforms the familiar melody through her contemporary harmonic lens while respecting its folk origins. The Sussex Carol, dating from the 17th century, tells the nativity story from the perspective of the singers offering praise on a cold winter's night. Hagenberg maintains the dance-like character inherent in the original 6/8 meter while adding sophisticated vocal textures that elevate it beyond simple harmonization.

Her arrangement employs strategic divisi to create moments of harmonic richness, particularly in the "Sing, oh sing" refrains where she builds dense chord clusters that shimmer before resolving. Hagenberg uses the piano not merely as accompaniment but as an independent voice, with treble figurations that suggest both the gentle rocking of a lullaby and the celebratory nature of the text. She varies each verse through textural changes—unison passages giving way to full harmony, women's voices alternating with men's—keeping the familiar melody fresh throughout.

The harmonic progressions move beyond traditional folk settings, incorporating modal inflections and unexpected chromatic voice leading that adds sophistication without obscuring the carol's essential simplicity. Hagenberg's dynamic markings create an arc across the entire piece, building from intimate wonder to joyful celebration. Her treatment respects both the carol's humble origins and contemporary choral capabilities, making it equally suitable for concert and worship settings.

About the composer:

https://www.elainehagenberg.com/about

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