CH4001
Dies natalis invicti solis
birthday of the undefeated sun
SATB
performance time approx 2m 00s
Range S: c' – f'' / A: c' – a♭' / T: g – e♭' / B: A♭ – a♭
See a perusal copy (PDF format) of the
music.
This copy is not licensed for rehearsal, performance or recording.
Hear a
performance of
Dies natalis invicti solis
Here is a spirited winter solstice carol that adds a touch of pagan spice to a Christmas concert. It's not hard, and best performed from memory, with electric delivery and energetic diction.
Rudsambee Company of Singers, for whom the piece was written, developed a taste for ending the second and fourth verses on an unresolved chord in which tenors hold their final D without moving to the C. Feel free to follow their misrule!
The recording is by Rudsambee Company of Singers, and is available on the CD Dies natalis invicti solis (RUBEECD001).
Another pagan winter song published by Canasg is Andrew Adams' A carol for the wanderer, available in SATB and TB versions.
Words
Holly and mistletoe, ivy and yew
a wreath for the old year, a flame for the new
votive offerings glitter and shine
golden libations; whisky and wine.
Nutmeg and ginger, cinnamon, cloves
promise of sunshine baked into loaves
fruits of the old year wither and die
put to rest finally, gluttony pie.
Chase out the spirits, wassailing go
line up the old gods, all in a row
grey-bearded shaman, lord of misrule
challenge the order, send for more fuel.
Settle the old scores, seek out the blame
disease and corruption perish in flame
purification fire aglow
old grey man's garments; red blood on snow.
Mistletoe, ivy, holly and yew
male and female bring life anew
a flame for the new year, a wreath for the old
fresh hope and mystery keep out the cold.
words © Peter Hill 1997 and used with permission
Purchase – 4001: Dies natalis invicti solis
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