Traditional :: Bring A Torch, Jeanette Isabella

Musicians Publications presents Bring A Torch, Jeanette Isabella arranged for flute choir by Bill Holcombe and Bill Holcombe Jr. Scored for 4 C flutes, alto flute, and bass flute, this arrangement also includes an optional bassoon, cello, or bass clarinet part to help fill out the bass sound. This arrangement of the Christmas classic is intermediate in difficulty.

This lovely carol comes from the Provence region of France where it is known as Un Flambeau, Jeanette, Isabelle (Bring a torch, Jeannette, Isabella). It is believed to date from the 17th century, possibly by Nicholas Saboly (1614-1675). Like many carols it tells a story. The best-known version is the translation by Edward Cuthbert Nunn (1868-1914) which begins:

Bring a torch, Jeannette, Isabella!
Bring a torch to the cradle, run!
It is Jesus, good folk of the village;
Christ is born and Mary's calling:
Ah! Ah! beautiful is the Mother
Ah! Ah! beautiful is her Son!

The custom of acting out a scene beside the cradle of Jesus goes back to the middle ages. In southern Europe the torches, or candles, of Chanukah -- the Jewish Festival of Lights -- played an important part in Christmas celebrations. The carol should be played simply and with forward motion but without haste. Keep the tempo steady till the final measures and let it gradually fade out.

-William Ryden, 1998