The First Noel – SATB Divisi

Creative setting of the traditional carol scored for divisi mixed chorus with piano duet
The First Noel by Dwight Bigler is a creative setting of the traditional carol scored for divisi mixed chorus with piano duet. Recently the BYU Concert Choir, the BYU Singers, Men’s Chorus, Women’s Chorus, and the BYU Philharmonic Orchestra.

“The First Noel” is a traditional English Christmas carol, possibly dating back to the 17th century, though its exact origins are unclear. The song is in the public domain, meaning it’s free for anyone to use without paying royalties. This status has contributed significantly to its popularity and widespread use during the holiday season.

In the realm of choral arrangements, this exquisite rendition of the beloved Christmas carol, The First Noel, stands out as an epitome of musical brilliance, tailor-made for sizable or adept choral ensembles. Commencing with a modest and tranquil introduction featuring unison verses sung by both women and men, it gradually evolves into a grandiloquent manifestation of jubilation during the climactic final verse. This climactic moment beckons forth the finest expressive nuances from your ensemble, showcasing the exceptional talents of your musicians.

The arrangement, in its entirety, serves as a testament to the versatility and adaptability of the musical elements, providing a multifaceted experience for both performers and listeners alike. Arranger Dwight Bigler originally crafted this setting for a divided mixed chorus accompanied by a full orchestra. It also works with a provided piano-four-hands accompaniment that possesses its own intrinsic effectiveness and vibrancy. A regal brass accompaniment is also available for those performances with just those smaller forces.

The composition’s uplifting nature and indelible resonance make it a fitting and memorable conclusion to any musical presentation throughout the month of December. It not only captures the essence of the festive season but also leaves a lasting impression, etching itself into the collective memory of those fortunate enough to experience its musical grandeur.

As the piece unfolds, the orchestrated interplay between the choral voices and the instrumental ensemble creates a harmonious tapestry of sound, elevating the overall aesthetic and emotional impact. The careful scoring allows for dynamic contrasts, enabling the performers to explore a spectrum of tonal colors and textures, thereby enhancing the richness of the musical narrative.

In essence, this composition transcends the boundaries of a mere choral offering, evolving into a symphonic celebration that resonates with the spirit of the season. Its fusion of vocal and instrumental elements, coupled with its meticulously crafted arrangement, ensures an immersive and enchanting musical journey for both performers and audience members alike.
Background and Origin of The First Noel

1. Origin: “The First Noel” is believed to have originated in the 16th or 17th century in the South West region of England. However, the version we are familiar with today was first published in “Carols Ancient and Modern” by William Sandys in 1833.

2. Lyrics and Theme: The carol narrates the story of the Nativity of Jesus, specifically the night of his birth and the visit of the shepherds and the three wise men. Its lyrics are based on the Gospel accounts in the Bible, particularly the books of Luke and Matthew.

3. Musical Structure: The melody is simple and repetitive, making it easily memorable and singable, which likely contributed to its widespread popularity. The refrain “Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel” is an old French term meaning “Christmas,” which further emphasizes its holiday theme.
Importance and Impact

1. Cultural Significance: “The First Noel” is a staple of Christmas music and is performed widely during the holiday season. Its religious theme reflects the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, making it a significant part of religious services.

2. Public Domain Status: The public domain status of “The First Noel” has allowed for numerous adaptations, arrangements, and performances. This has facilitated its integration into various cultural contexts and media, including films, TV shows, and radio. ‘The First Noel’ has endured over time and inspired numerous interpretations due to its status in the public domain, allowing artists to put their unique spin on it. Among the many renditions, Dwight Bigler’s version stands out as superior to most. His rendition showcases exceptional artistry, capturing the essence of the song in a way that resonates deeply with audiences. This diversity of interpretations, with Bigler’s rendition at the forefront, demonstrates the enduring beauty and adaptability of this timeless holiday classic.

3. Universal Appeal: Its simple melody and narrative lyrics have universal appeal, transcending cultural and language barriers. This has helped the carol to become one of the most recognized and beloved Christmas songs around the world.

“The First Noel” holds a special place in Christmas tradition due to its historical roots, thematic content, musical accessibility, and its public domain status, which has allowed it to be endlessly adapted and celebrated.

Dwight Bigler: Esteemed Composer, Conductor, and Educator

Dwight Bigler, a renowned figure in the world of choral music, has been shaping the voices at Virginia Tech as the director of choirs since 2009. His remarkable journey in music spans various prestigious roles, including his tenure as the director of choral activities at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. Further showcasing his versatility, Bigler has also excelled as the assistant conductor and pianist for the acclaimed Dale Warland Singers.

Bigler’s influence extends beyond his primary institutions. He is sought after across the United States and internationally, where he guest conducts and leads workshops for high schools and universities. His expertise in choral music has made him a respected figure in music education and performance circles.

His accomplishments are not just in the realm of conducting and teaching. Dwight Bigler is a recipient of multiple awards and honors, highlighting his contributions to the field of music. In 2015, he was honored with the Excellence in Research and Creative Scholarship Award by the Virginia Tech College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. This recognition came on the heels of his 2011 victory in the National Collegiate Choral Organization Choral Music Series publication contest. Furthermore, his creative talents in composition have been acknowledged twice with the Barlow Endowment for Music Composition grants, cementing his status as a prolific composer.

At the core of Bigler’s professional pursuits are his principal areas of research focus. As a Director of Choral Activities, he delves deeply into the research and production of choral ensembles and music composition. His teaching expertise covers a broad spectrum, from choral arranging to music literature, making him a versatile and knowledgeable educator.

Bigler’s educational background is as impressive as his professional achievements. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree from the University of Texas at Austin, which complements his Master of Music (MM) and Bachelor of Music (BM) degrees from Brigham Young University. His academic foundation has undoubtedly contributed to his exceptional career in music.

Dwight Bigler continues to inspire and influence the next generation of musicians and composers through his dedication to excellence in choral music. His journey is a testament to his passion for music and his commitment to nurturing talent in the field.

(

)