Composer

:

Healey Willan

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:22

"What is this lovely fragrance?" is a choral work composed by Healey Willan, a Canadian composer and organist. The piece was composed in 1921 and premiered in Toronto, Canada in the same year. It is a four-movement work that is often performed during the Christmas season. The first movement, "What is this lovely fragrance?", is a joyful and lively piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The choir sings about the beautiful fragrance that fills the air, which is a symbol of the birth of Christ. The music is characterized by its bright and cheerful melody, which is accompanied by a lively piano or organ. The second movement, "The Shepherds' Carol", is a more subdued piece that tells the story of the shepherds who were visited by angels and told of the birth of Christ. The music is characterized by its gentle and peaceful melody, which is accompanied by a soft and delicate piano or organ. The third movement, "The Three Kings", is a majestic and grand piece that tells the story of the three kings who traveled from afar to bring gifts to the newborn Christ. The music is characterized by its regal and triumphant melody, which is accompanied by a powerful piano or organ. The final movement, "The Babe of Bethlehem", is a tender and intimate piece that reflects on the birth of Christ and the love that he brings to the world. The music is characterized by its gentle and soothing melody, which is accompanied by a soft and delicate piano or organ. Overall, "What is this lovely fragrance?" is a beautiful and uplifting choral work that celebrates the birth of Christ. Its joyful melodies and peaceful harmonies make it a popular choice for Christmas concerts and services.

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