Sheet Music: Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella

TitleBring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella
Alternate titlesUn flambeau, Jeannette, Isabelle
ComposerTraditional French
InstrumentationFlute trio
KeyG major
RangeC4–D6
Time signature6/8
Tempo60 BPM
Performance time1:10
Difficulty leveleasy
Download printable scorePDF Sheet Music (60 kB) (preview)
Download audio tracksMIDI (change tempo/key) MP3 (575 kB)
Play-along accompanimentMIDI (change tempo/key) MP3 (639 kB)
Date added2021-12-18
Last updated2021-12-18
Download popularity index☆☆☆☆☆ 0.3 (below average)
Categories
Christian music, Dance tunes, Hymn tunes, Traditional/Folk

Performances

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Saturday 18 December 2021

Tune of the Day: Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella

arranged for three flutes

Several authors have commented that this carol evokes the tradition of erecting a crèche to honor the Christ Child. However, according to both William L. Simon (Merry Christmas Songbook, 1981) and Nancy J. Skarmeas (The Carols of Christmas, 1993), the tune to this carol has been known since the 14th Century — not as a sacred hymn, but as a lively dance for French nobility. Both authors state that the carol, with words and music, first appeared in a compilation of Christmas music, Cantiques de Premiere Advenement de Jesu-Christ, published in 1553 by poet and painter Nicolas Denisot, whose hobby was the collection of Christmas music.

Many thanks to Mark for contributing this arrangement for flute trio!