“What is This Lovely Fragrance?” (“Quelle est cette odeur agréable?”) is a 17th-century French traditional Noël (carol) about the Nativity of Christ. The melody accompanying its lyrics, a folk tune, was used by John Gay (1685–1732) in his satirical work, The Beggar’s Opera (1728). It is this tune to which the text, calling the shepherds to the manger, is typically set.
What is this lovely fragrance wafting like to the scents of flow’rs in spring? / Shepherds, O tell us, whence such beauty, hear you not heav’nly carolling? / What is this lovely fragrance wafting like to the scents of flow’rs in spring?
What is this light so fair, so tender, breaking upon our wond’ring eyes? / Never the Morning Star so radiant followed his course o’er eastern skies. / What is this light so fair, so tender, breaking upon our wond’ring eyes?
Shepherds, O haste with eager footsteps, seek the Saviour born today. / Low at his feet we lay our treasure, heart’s adoration, love for aye. / Shepherds, O haste with eager footsteps, seek the Saviour born today.
Score, parts (Bb tpt. 1, Bb tpt. 2, F horn, tbn, tuba) — $12.99
See more Advent and Christmas Music for Brass Quintet | See all Brass Quintets