This is a simple arrangement of Chtíc aby spal - aka Vánoční noc - by Adam Vaclav Michna z Otradovic, a 17th century composer. The arrangement takes into consideration choirs with limited technical ability.

Some performance options include performing it as written with the choir joining in on the repeat. Additionally it may be performed by soloists only. I recommend a male voice for the first iteration then a female voice for the second essay; joining together for the final phrase. Or (and preferably) a children’s choir can take the tune each time, adding the choir the second time through. This can also be effectively performed as a unison vocal with a brass quartet playing the SATB parts.

Note: regarding the handbells, they should play the introduction then remain silent until the first ending. And then follow the score on the repeat.

March 2019: you will note some differences between the recording and the score which was recently edited for clarity. The overall effect remains intact.

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