Encapsulating the Joy and Wonder of the Nativity, The First Noel Song remains as one of the cherished traditional Christmas Carols of all time!. Lets get into a lyrics of The First Noel.
The First Noel Lyrics
Verse 1
The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields say as they lay,
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On the cold winter’s night that was so deep
Refrain
Noel, Noel. Noel. Noel.
Born is the King of Israel.
Verse 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]
Verse 4
This star drew nigh to the north west ;
O’er Bethlehem it took its rest, and there
It did both stop and stay,
Right over the place where Jesus lay
[Refrain]
Verse 5
Then entered in those wise men three,
Full reverently upon their knee, and offered
there in his presence their gold, and myrrh, and Frankincense.
[Refrain]
Verse 6
Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord,
That hath made heaven and earth of night
And with his blood our life hath bought
The First Noel History
Our staple Christmas carol, The First Noel’ History is somewhat obscure. The First Noel Lyrics weaves the beautiful story of Birth of Jesus from a shepherd’s perspective.
Have Ye Heard?
The word ‘Noel’ in French means Christmas Season! Noel in Latin refers to the day of birth.
The First Noel song is closely associated with Cornish origins. It is believed that The First Noel history begins as a folk song sung by Cornish miners that’s been passed down orally through generations. The first known publication of the carol was from a book called “Carols Ancient and Modern.” It was published in 1823. One could see that the First Noel performance melody reflects Cornish Folk music.
The inclusion of First Noel song in hymnals and other songs collections publication made this a popular carol of all time. I think it’s only here in The First Noel history, that actually matters. This has enabled a gem of a thing like The First Noel lyrics to reach many souls.
The First Noel Lyrics Meaning
I must proclaim that ‘The First Noel’ lyrics are just simple yet evocative. The carol consists of several verses, each verse recounting the elements of the Nativity story.
Have Ye Heard?
The refrain “Noel, Noel” serves as a happy announcement of the birth of ‘Jesus Christ’
There is a consistent pattern with four-line verses and a refrain (Chorus).
The First Noel song encourages communal singing. The First Noel lyrics recounts how the shepherds were visited by angels who announced the arrival of the savior. The listeners are invited to reflect on the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ.
We could see that the angels are the messengers of God, who brought the message of ‘The First Noel and the Messiah’s birth’ which can be seen highlighted in the The First Noel lyrics. It also conveys that God chose the humble and poor shepherds and not the kings and queens. I think this aspect serves as a reminder that the Gospel isn’t reserved for the wealthy but for everyone regardless of their social status as beautifully told to us through the First Noel song.
The First Noel Chords With Lyrics
Guitar chords for The First Noel Song
Piano chords for The First Noel Song
Verse 1
D G A
The first Noel the angel did say
D A D F#
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields say as they lay,
D A
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
D A D F#
On the cold winter’s night that was so deep
Refrain
D A Bm D
Noel! Noel! Noel! Noel!
D A D F#
Born is the King of Israel.
Verse 2
D G A
They looked up and saw a star
D A D F#
Shining in the east beyond them far ;
D A
And to the earth it gave great light,
D A D F#
And so it continued both day and night.
Refrain
D A Bm D
Noel! Noel! Noel! Noel!
D A D F#
Born is the King of Israel.
The First Noel Sheet Music
Have Ye Heard?
The traditional SATB arrangement of the carol was done by John Strainer, an English Composer in 1871.
Popular The First Noel Performances
Josh Groban Ft. Faith Hill
The First Noel’ Performance by Josh Groban ft. Faith Hill is a beautiful rendition that lives in my heart from my childhood. It was released in his Holiday album called “Noel.” The classy Harmonies and orchestral arrangements enhance this timeless carol.
The generous use of Dynamics and Vibrato highlights both the singers’ vocal strengths. Their rendition of the First Noel song brings a modern touch while savoring its traditional elements.
Celtic Woman
‘Celtic Woman’ are known for their Voices like angels and their blending Classical with celtic music styles. Their The First Noel performance of the Celtic woman was released as a part of “ A Christmas Celebration” album. The highlights include the women’ ethereal vocals evoking the festive and warm ambience. Rich Irish instrumentals and celtic orchestral accompaniments makes this one of popular choices for holiday playlists.
550 BYU Musicians
This is a spectacular Choir – SATB and an orchestral version of The First Noel song by the students of Brigham Young University. The carol begins with women singing the first verse and different parts join in the refrain creating a rich, immersive sound. The grandiose of the sound keeps building up with Key changes and the end refrain has just captivates the audiences with the Choral arrangement.
Carrie Underwood
Released in 2020 as a part of her holiday album “The Gift”, it portrays Underwood’s powerful Vocals and an emotive delivery. I, personally, am in awe of her Belting techniques. She makes it sound so easy. Underwood’s The First Noel performance brings a fresh energy to the carol and resonates well with the audiences.
Lady Antebellum
An acoustic set with the trio’s signature harmonies enhancing the message of hope and joy of the classic carol is The First Noel performance for you. The band released a holiday album called “On This Winter’s Night.” The subtle accompaniment maintains the essence for The First Noel’ history and creates a cozy, festive mood.
The Hound and The Fox
The First Noel song by The Hound and The Fox is a fresh take on classic Christmas with folk and acoustic elements. It features smooth gentle Vocals, acoustic guitar and a subtle percussion.
Pentatonix
Pentatonix’ version is a vibrant acapella take on The First Noel christmas carol. The incredible vocal arrangements and the vocal percussion adds magic to the carol. Their performance adds reverence to the carol’ lyrics. It resonates deeply with the listeners.
FAQs
What is The First Noel’ History?
The First Noel history begins as a folk song sung by Cornish miners that's been passed down orally through generations.
Who wrote The First Noel?
The author of The First Noel is unknown.
What is the meaning of The First Noel?
The First Noel Lyrics weaves the beautiful story of Birth of Jesus from a shepherd’s perspective.
When was The First Noel first published?
The first known publication of the carol was from a book called “Carols Ancient and Modern.” It was published in 1823.
Who has covered The First Noel?
Many artists have covered The First Noel Lyrics. Some of the popular versions include Josh Groban, Lady Antebellum, Carrie Underwood, Pentatonix, Boney M.
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