Walter Sommer Christmas The First Noel

“The First Noel” is a traditional English Christmas carol that tells the story of the birth of Jesus. The song describes how, on the first Christmas night, an angel appeared to shepherds watching over their flocks, announcing the birth of Christ. The shepherds, moved by the news, travel to Bethlehem to witness the newborn Savior. The carol celebrates the humble beginnings of Jesus’ life and the joy of His arrival, encouraging all to join in the reverence and praise of this miraculous event. Its melody and lyrics emphasize the simplicity and beauty of the nativity story.

The exact origins of “The First Noel” are uncertain, as it is a traditional English carol that dates back to at least the 16th or 17th century. It is thought to have originated in Cornwall, England, though it was passed down orally, which makes its authorship unknown. The earliest known publication of the song was in 1823, in a book titled “Some Ancient Christmas Carols” by William B. Sandys, who included it in his collection of English folk songs.