The First Noel
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It's difficult to know just how old "The First Noel" is. The song (at least the words) is thought to be of Cornish origin, and may date back as early as the 13th or 14th century. During this time, miracle plays and mystery plays -- dramatic productions of Catholic saints and biblical stories -- were popular in Europe. "The First Noel" may have its origins in some form as early as this time, though it may also be a variation on "The First O Well," a very old church gallery hymn. It was first published with words in 1823, as part of William Sandys' Carols Ancient and Modern. The arrangement here also incorporates a variation of "Prayer from the North," a tin whistle melody by Solnamoo Song. Sheet music available at https://music.justinreeve.com/the-first-noel/
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