Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabelle {Robert Shaw}

"Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella" (French: Un flambeau, Jeannette, Isabelle) is a Christmas carol which originated from the Provence region of France in the 16th century. The song is unique among Christmas carols in that it is in 3/8 time.

The carol was first published in 1553 in France, and was subsequently translated into English in the 18th century. The song was originally not a song to be sung at Christmas, but rather dance music for French nobility.
It might have been written by Nicolas Saboly (1614-1675) (See: Touro-Louro-Louro)

The carol tells the story of two milkmaids, Jeanette and Isabella, who go to milk their cows in a stable in Bethlehem, only to find the baby Jesus sleeping in the manger. The two girls run to town to tell the village of the coming of Christ, and the townspeople come with their own torches to view the sight for themselves. However, they have to keep their voices down so little Jesus can enjoy his dreams. To this day in the Provence region, children dress up as shepherds and milkmaids, carrying torches and candles to Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, while singing the carol.

The painter Georges de La Tour painted a nativity scene based on the carol.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Bring a Torch
• Jeanette
• Isabelle {Robert Shaw}

[basicaa]

The Incarnation is the place... where hope contends with fear.

[sanjurodog]

Jeanette Marie 10-28-05 ~11-14-05 Isabelle Ann 4-30-09

[maxbatch70]

HEAVENLY

[treblemker]

this choir is so gorgeous. it's sung perfectly

[Mackaronni]

That which pleases the ear, warms the heart...congratulations and thank you Maestro Robert Shaw...R.I.P.

[natyt333]

Ah I love this! I remember playing this in an orchestra - but you never hear it elsewhere anymore!

[What23ize]

Butifull song I'm singing this in concert choir I love the silence no

[ikmarchini]

Ah, beautiful choral singing.

[wlgnschl]

makes me fall in love with Christmas music all over again.

[beezlebub1993]

fabulous...loved this version!