What are the lyrics of THE FIRST NOWELL by JoeMary Chi. E?

“THE FIRST NOWELL” begins: The first Nowell the Angels did say… Read the full lyrics on ChoirPDFs.

Who composed THE FIRST NOWELL?

THE FIRST NOWELL was composed by JoeMary Chi. E.

What language is THE FIRST NOWELL sung in?

THE FIRST NOWELL is sung in English.

THE FIRST NOWELL by JoeMary Chi. E — Lyrics & Sheet Music (PDF)

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Added Jul 30, 2026

Composer: JoeMary Chi. E

Uploaded By: Choir PDFs

Format: Solfa

Language: English

Pages: 1 page

THE FIRST NOWELL by JoeMary Chi. E — Lyrics

VERSE 1 The first Nowell the Angels did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay keeping their sheep On a cold winter's night that was so deep. REFRAIN Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Born is the King of Israel. VERSE 2 They look'd above and there saw a star, That shone in the east beyond them afar, And which to earth did give a great light, And so it continued by day and by night. VERSE 3 And by the light of that same star Three wise men came from country far; To seek for a king was their intent,

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About THE FIRST NOWELL

"The First Nowell" is one of those essential carols that immediately brings the joy of the Christmas season into the church. It tells the familiar story of the Nativity, starting with the angels appearing to the poor shepherds in the cold fields, and moving through the journey of the wise men following the star. For a choir, it is a wonderful narrative piece that unfolds verse by verse, drawing the congregation right into the heart of the Christmas mystery.

During the festive season, we often use this piece at the annual Carol of Nine Lessons, or as a joyful Communion or Recessional hymn during the Christmas Day Masses. The melody is bright and sweeping, building up to that triumphant refrain declaring the birth of the King of Israel. It is a song that invites everyone to join in, lifting the spirit of the whole parish as we celebrate the newborn King.

This particular solfa arrangement by JoeMary Chi. E. keeps the traditional harmonies clear and accessible. It gives the choir a solid foundation to sing the verses with good diction and storytelling energy, ensuring the message of the angels rings out clearly from the choir loft to the pews.