The Christmas hymn “Nazareth” is based on a composition by Charles Gounod entitled “Jésus de Nazareth”. The original work, which Gounod composed for solo baritone and orchestra with only a few bars for choir, was enthusiastically received by the audience at its premiere and subsequently became widely known through various arrangements. There also exists a popular version in English. In contrast to the French original, which deals with the life of Jesus more generally, the English version focuses on the Christmas story. An arrangement of this version by American composer and organist Dudley Buck (1839-1909) for mixed choir with solo baritone and organ accompaniment forms the basis for our Carus edition. For the first time, the hymn also features a German text: “Kommt her zur Krippe, kommt her, betet an.” In this work, Gounod once again proves himself a master melodist. The hymn-like cantilena floating above simple harmonies in 6/4 time (Andantino) reveals the composer’s love of opera.
| Format | Score |
| Level | 2 |
| NumberOfPages | 12 |
| Media | Sheet Music |
| Publisher | Carus Verlag |
| Contributors | Gounod, Charles(Composer) Buck, Dudley(Arranger) Fritsch, Gerhard(Artist) |
| Language | English, German |
| ISMN | 9790007339975 |