Celtic Harp for Christmas - Huron Carol

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Album: Celtic Harp for Christmas
Celtic Harp, Flute & Bells Played By: Lori Pappajohn
Cello Played By: Finn Manniche
Distributed By: Midsummer Music
Track Name: Huron Carol [French Melody]
Track Number: 07
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Notes:
Huron Carol
The Huron Carol is one of my favorites. Its wistful melody and intriguing words paint a picture of a moonlit night with snow sparkling and glistening as if scattered with diamonds. This arrangement, featuring two flutes, seeks to recreate the imagery of a cold and starry night. The Huron Indian words of this unique carol were written in the mid 1600's by Father Jean de Brebeuf who lived in what is now Ontario. He wanted to explain the Christmas story in terms the Native Indians would understand. His Huron words, set to an old French melody, were interpreted by Canadian poet J.E. Middleton in 1926. -- LP

Twas in the moon of winter time
When all the birds had fled
That mighty Gitchi Manitou
Sent angel choirs instead.
Before their light the stars grew dim
And wandering hunters heard the hymn
Jesus your King is born,
Jesus is born in excelsis Gloria.

Within a lodge of broken bark
The tender babe was found,
A ragged robe of rabbit skin
Enwrapped his beauty round
But as the hunter braves drew nigh
The angel song rang loud and high:
Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born
In excelsis Gloria.

O children of the forest free,
O sons of Manitou,
The holy child of earth and heaven
Is born today for you.
Come kneel before the radiant boy
Who brings you beauty,
Peace and joy.
Jesus, your king is born
Jesus is born
In excelsis gloria.
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~ Merry Christmas!