D'où viens-tu, bergère?
D'où viens-tu, bergère? is a traditional French carol.[1] Written in 4-4 time, this carol is sung to celebrate Christmas in France.[2] In its English translation Mary Magdalene comes from visiting the manger of Jesus and tells the shepherds and angels of his birth. The carol is a popular choice for francophone choirs internationally.
Partial traditional lyrics
- D'où viens-tu, bergère ?
- D'où viens-tu?
- Je viens de l'étable
- De m'y promener!
- J'ai vu un miracle,
- Ce soir arriver!
- Rien de plus, bergère ?
- Rien de plus?
- Y'a le boeuf et l'âne,
- Qui sont par devant,
- Avec leur haleine
- Réchauffant l'enfant.
The carol is usually repeated 2 times, and traditionally, is accompanied by harpsichord and oboe.
English translation
What did you see Oh Maiden, What did you see?
On this very night, my own eyes were dazzled, by a wondrous sight!
Was he fair, Oh Maiden, Was he fair?
Fairer than the moon, fairer than the sun! Never in this world have I seen such a one!
Was he calm, Oh Maiden, was he calm?
All my heart was given to this little child. In my very soul, he will live for all time!
References
- ↑ Francophone musique, D'ou viens-tu, bergiere? Retrieved October 19, 2010.
- ↑ The Traditional Book of Carols