Cherry Tree Carol – SATB

The Cherry Tree Carol is one of many ‘mystery’ carols, that date from around 1500 in England. There are many different variants of both the lyrics and melody. The beautiful tune for this arrangement likely originates in eastern Canada during the 1700s. The legend of the cherry tree recounts the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Along the road, Mary asks Joseph to pick her some cherries. But Joseph, bewildered by her pregnancy, angrily tells her to ask the child’s father to fetch her cherries. Behold, a miracle occurs and the branches of the cherry tree lower to Mary. This arrangement, supported by a colourful piano accompaniment, highlights the dialogue between Mary and Joseph, and the changing moods of story.