Composer

:

Thomas Morley

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

before 1601

Publication Date

:

1601

Average_duration

:

2:13

'Arise, awake, you silly shepherds sleeping' is a Christmas carol composed by Thomas Morley, an English composer, organist, and theorist of the Renaissance era. The carol was composed in the late 16th century and was first published in 1601 in a collection of Christmas carols called 'The Triumphs of Oriana'. The carol is written in four-part harmony and has a lively and joyful character. It is typically performed in a brisk tempo and features a catchy melody that is easy to sing along to. The lyrics of the carol tell the story of the shepherds who were visited by angels on the night of Jesus' birth and were told to go and see the newborn king. The carol encourages the shepherds to wake up and go to Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus. The carol is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is a lively and energetic introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the carol. The second movement is more subdued and contemplative, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. This movement reflects on the significance of the shepherds' journey and the miracle of Jesus' birth. The third movement returns to the lively and joyful character of the opening, with a triumphant conclusion that celebrates the shepherds' arrival in Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus. Overall, 'Arise, awake, you silly shepherds sleeping' is a classic example of a Renaissance Christmas carol. It features a catchy melody, lively rhythms, and complex harmonies that reflect the musical style of the era. The carol's lyrics tell the story of the shepherds' journey to Bethlehem and their encounter with the baby Jesus, making it a popular choice for Christmas celebrations and church services.

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