Howard Helvey is one of the most published choral composers and arrangers of the twenty-first century, having produced hundreds of pieces ranging for mixed SATB choir, TTBB choir and SSA choir. An accomplished composer, conductor, pianist and organist, Helvey and his works have been presented internationally at some of the most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, the White House, St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, among so many others. 

Sing We Now of Christmas is based on the fifteenth century French carol, Noël nuovelet. It tells the miraculous story of the birth of Christ and the nativity scene. In this arrangement, Helvery combines various modes and textures to create a unique and exciting version of the classic holiday tune.

Sing we now of Christmas,
Sing we all noel.
Of our Lord and Saviour, 
We tell the tidings.

Sing we noel, for Christ the King is born.
Sing we now of Christmas,
Sing we all noel.

Angels call to shepherds, “Leave your flocks at rest.
Journey forth to Bethlehem, 
Find the child so blest.”

Sing we noel, for Christ the King is born.
Sing we now of Christmas,
Sing we all noel.

In Bethlehem, they found him: 
Joseph and Mary mild,
Seated by the manger, 
Watching the holy child 

Sing we noel, for Christ the King is born.
Sing we now of Christmas,
Sing we all noel.

From the Eastern country, 
Came the kings afar,
Bearing gifts to Bethlehem,
Guided by a star.

Glory to God,
For Christ the King is born.
Sing we now of Christmas,
Sing we all noel.

Gold and myrrh they took there,
Gifts of greatest price;
There was never a stable,
So like a paradise.

Sing we noel, for Christ the King is born.
Sing we now of Christmas,
Sing we all noel.
Sing we all noel!

Program notes by Matt Niess, Matt Oltman, Vince Peterson, Dina Spyropoulos, Noah Wagar and Drew Young.