The earliest sources for Noël Nouvelet date from late 15th century France, although it’s probably much older. The composer is unknown. It was translated into English as “Sing We Now of Christmas,” though a more accurate translation is “Christmas Comes Anew.” The oldest extant lyrics comprise verses that describe every element of the Christmas story as we know it today—Mary and Joseph, the stable, angels and shepherds, and the three wise men. In pre-modern times, oral tradition was the main way illiterate people throughout the world could learn their histories, mythologies, and religions. Almost no one except the clergy and some nobility could read at all. Thus, songs and plays were favored vehicles for religious instruction. Noël Nouvelet is one of the oldest Christmas carols still performed today.
