Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabella

This lovely French carol is a natural for string orchestra. This familiar piece will be a great addition to your Christmas Concert, but actually it could be used in any season. Even though we think of it as Christmas music because of the title, the tune was originally a 13th century dance tune, and in the 17th century it became a drinking song arranged by the French composer Marc Charpentier. This is an unlikey beginning for a song we think of as a lullaby. The harmonies are beautiful and included is a short optional violin solo which can be played by the entire section. Your orchestra and audience will love it.