I Sing the Birth (from I Sing the Birth) – Carol Barnett

Composer: Carol Barnett Text by: Ben Jonson (1572-1637) Instrumentation: SATB divisi, percussion Duration: c 3:45 Date Written:  2003 Composer’s note:  I Sing the Birth was written in 2003 for the South Bend Chamber Singers, Nancy Menk, director. It begins as a traditional celebratory Christmas suite, joyously announcing the birth, telling of the shepherds and wise men, singing a lullaby. It goes on to tell of four-year-old Jesus and the miracle of the birds, and ends with a prayer to keep the ardent joy of Christmas in us always. The first two movements share the jubilant sound of A major. The last two movements flow together, connected by the spirit of prayer and the key of B major. The lullaby stands alone, a peaceful interlude in the midst of deeply felt emotions. “I Sing the Birth” – In joyous A Lydian mode, accompanied by bright vibraphone, the choir announces the birth of Christ at the beginning of each stanza. Commentaries in F Major follow, accompanied by chattering woodblocks