Singing the Living Tradition ‎#237

237. The First Nowell

1 The first Nowell the angel did say
was to certain poor shepherds, in fields as they lay,
in fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Refrain:
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
born is the King of Israel.

2 They looked up and saw a star,
shining in the east beyond them far,
and to the earth it gave great light,
and so it continued both day and night. [Refrain]

3 And by the light of that same star
three magi came from country far;
to seek for a king was their intent,
and to follow the star wherever it went. [Refrain]

Text Information

• First Line: The first Nowell the angel did say
• Title: The First Nowell
• Refrain First Line: Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1993
• Topic: Jewish and Christian Teachings: Christmas
• Source: English carol

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Harmonizer: John Stainer, 1840-1901
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Key: D Major
• Source: William Sandys's Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern, 1833