Composer Spotlight: Erica Phare-Bergh and the History Behind Noël Nouvelet
On our winter concert program we will be singing Noël Nouvelet, a beautiful arrangement by Canadian composer and arranger Erica Phare-Bergh. What is the story behind this hauntingly beautiful French Canadian carol, and who is the composer who brought this enchanting setting to life?
From Cypress Choral Music
Erica Phare-Bergh, currently living in Cochrane Alberta, is a new composer for Cantala this season. She holds a unique place in the Canadian choral landscape, with compositions and arrangements that reflect her love of Canadian musical traditions.
Erica Phare-Bergh, composer and choral director
One example of her passion for the Canadian musical tradition is her arrangement of Noël Nouvelet, a joyful Christmas carol that has been sung for more than five centuries. Originating in France, the carol crossed the Atlantic with French settlers and became an enduring part of the French-Canadian Christmas tradition. The title translates as "Christmas Anew" or "The New Christmas," capturing the wonder, hope, and celebration of the Nativity.
The image below is a depiction of the Nativity that is depicted in the text of Noël Nouvelet.
Painting Credit: Hans Pleydenwurff
Like many traditional carols, Noël Nouvelet was passed down orally through generations before it was ever published. During the late Middle Ages and Renaissance, it was sung in churches, homes, and village celebrations throughout France. Its lively melody and memorable refrain invited everyone to join in, whether or not they knew every verse. As French communities established themselves in Canada, they carried the carol with them, where it continued to be sung at Christmas and became woven into the rich tapestry of French-Canadian musical heritage.
Today, English-speaking listeners will recognize its melody with the text Sing We Now of Christmas, which pairs the same traditional tune with English lyrics.
In her arrangement, Erica Phare-Bergh discovers new possibilities within this centuries-old melody. Her imaginative setting honours the carol's rich history while celebrating its place in Canada's choral tradition.
We look forward to sharing this beautiful arrangement that has connected singers and listeners across generations- for more than 500 years!