We hear that the tune for this carol was from W. Sandy’s Christmas Carols, published in 1833, and arranged by none other than John Stainer (who is well-known for his wonderful work “God So Loved the World”).
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.
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
Born is the King of Israel.
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.
And by the light of that same star three Wise Men came from country far;
To seek for a king was their intent, and to follow the star wherever it went.
This star drew nigh to the northwest, o’er Bethlehem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay, right over the place where Jesus lay.
Then entered in those Wise Men three, full reverently upon the knee,
And offered there, in his presence, their gold and myrrh and frankincense.
Hymn tune: THE FIRST NOEL
Church Calendar: Christmas
| Sixteen Handbells, C5-D7 |  |
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| Score Package: | $10.00 US | |
| Practice track:: | $2.00 US | |
| Sixteen Handbells, Bb4-C7 |  |
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| Score Package: | $10.00 US | |
| Practice track:: | $2.00 US | |
Also available for 8 handbells.
Purchasing this 16-bell arrangement gives you permission to print and maintain up to eight copies for your handbell group – so you only need to pay once. Purchase also gives permission for performance, broadcasting, live-streaming and video-sharing online. See our licensing agreement for full details, and please remember to mention the title and arranger of the piece on video-sharing sites, social media and any printed materials such as concert programs.
