Rooted in the sacred stillness of a French village on Christmas Eve, this suite by Martin Cordner draws upon traditional carols that have echoed through centuries of candlelit chapels and midnight vigils.
 
Each movement offers a window into the Nativity story:
I. Mystery: Noël Nouvelet (Christmas Comes Anew) opens with modal wonder, evoking the anticipation of Christ’s coming and the quiet awe of Advent.
II. Cradle: Entre le boeuf et l’âne gris (Between the Ox and the Grey Donkey) rests in pastoral tenderness, where the newborn Savior lies between humble beasts, watched over by angels and the Virgin.
III. Joy: Il est né, le divin enfant (He is born, the Divine Infant) bursts forth in celebration, proclaiming the divine birth with rustic dance and jubilant praise. Together, these carols form a musical triptych - moving from mystery to intimacy to exultation. Three Carols at Midnight invites listeners to step into the hush of a French Noël, where the sacred story is told not only in word, but in melody, memory, and light.
 
All proceeds support the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army Delaware Command, USA.
 
To view a rolling score video of the work please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUcCluBS18Q
 
Difficulty level: 4th Section +
 
Duration: approx. 5.00 minutes
 
This PDF download includes parts and score.
 
Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk or www.durhammusicshop.co.uk (UK) or www.cimarronmusic.com (USA)
 
Instrumentation:
Soprano Cornet Eb
1st Cornet Bb
2nd Cornet Bb
1st Horn Eb
2nd Horn Eb
1st Baritone Bb
2nd Baritone Bb
1st Trombone Bb
2nd Trombone Bb
Bass Trombone
Euphonium Bb
Bass Eb
Bass Bb
Percussion 1-2
Glockenspiel