Gaudete! Gaudete! Christus est Natus
This carol is another that appeared in the celebrated collection of sacred songs of 1582 entitled ‘Piae Cantiones’. The manuscript does not contain any melody for the verses and the standard version comes from other liturgical sources. The folk rock outfit ‘Steeleye Span’ did it a huge service by releasing a version in 1973 that appeared in the British charts - their version is sung with a distinct authenticity which captures the medieval flavour perfectly.
Our version tried to evoke a feeling of being played by a consort of viols and the harmonisation was based on the original descant, alto, tenor and bass parts which appeared in the 1582 manuscript. ‘Gaudete’ provides a welcome contrast as it’s peculiarly Medieval feeling remains intact.
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