Rondeau of the Shepherds, so ran the official title of the famous Dutch Christmas carol Midden in de winternacht. In 1948, Dutch poet and writer Harry Prenen wrote this text. The melody is known by the 17th/18th century organ composers of suites Daquin, Balbastre and Dandrieu. Rondeau of the Shepherds is subtitled Catalan Christmas Carol because of its origins in a Spanish (probably Catalan) Christmas song from the late Middle Ages, El Desembre congelat. The motives of this song (shepherds, flutes, drums) demonstrate knowledge of the Bible and give a picture of the late medieval Christmas experience. Perfect as an up-tempo intermezzo in a church service.
Duration: 3:00
