Jan Van der Wielen (1645 - 1679) was born in Ghent,
Belgium. Little else is know of the Flemish composer of
this work.
"Wel Lieve Herderkens" (My sweet shepherds) is a choral
work (with basso continuo) whos early Dutch lyrics
translate (my thanks to Jenne Van Antwerpen) to:
Sweet shepherds,what are you doing here?
Why are you so happy?
Why are you singing and dancing?
Is it for this journey,in this land?
Yes,we saw the heaven open and heared the message.(+)
Jan Van der Wielen (1645 - 1679) was born in Ghent,
Belgium. Little else is know of the Flemish composer of
this work.
"Wel Lieve Herderkens" (My sweet shepherds) is a choral
work (with basso continuo) whos early Dutch lyrics
translate (my thanks to Jenne Van Antwerpen) to:
Sweet shepherds,what are you doing here?
Why are you so happy?
Why are you singing and dancing?
Is it for this journey,in this land?
Yes,we saw the heaven open and heared the message.
That's why we,with a happy heart,are looking in
Bethlehem
in every stable and corner for the sweet,
dear child, that loves our peace so much.
Although originally written for Chorus and basso
continuo, I created this arrangement for Concert
(Pedal) Harp & Woodwind Quintet (Flute, Oboe, Bb
Clarinet, French Horn & Bassoon).