Composer

:

Christmas Traditional

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Carol

Compose Date

:

1498

Average_duration

:

3:04

The "Coventry Carol (2): Lully, Lulla, Thou Little Tiny Child" is a traditional Christmas carol that dates back to the 16th century. It is believed to have originated in Coventry, England, and was traditionally performed as part of a mystery play called "The Pageant of the Shearmen and Tailors." The carol is written in a minor key and has a haunting, mournful quality that reflects the somber subject matter. It tells the story of the Massacre of the Innocents, which is recounted in the Gospel of Matthew. The song is sung from the perspective of the mothers of the slain children, who are grieving for their loss. The carol is composed of three movements, each of which is sung in a different voice. The first movement is sung by a soloist and sets the tone for the piece with its mournful melody and lyrics. The second movement is sung by a choir and features a more complex arrangement with harmonies and counterpoint. The third movement returns to the soloist and brings the piece to a close with a final, plaintive refrain. One of the most distinctive characteristics of the "Coventry Carol (2): Lully, Lulla, Thou Little Tiny Child" is its use of a lullaby-like melody to convey the tragedy of the story. This creates a powerful contrast between the gentle, soothing melody and the dark subject matter of the lyrics. The carol is also notable for its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which add to the sense of unease and sorrow. The "Coventry Carol (2): Lully, Lulla, Thou Little Tiny Child" has been performed and recorded by countless artists over the years, and remains a beloved and hauntingly beautiful Christmas carol to this day.

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