O Jesus, Sweet Child (O Jesulein Zart)

Conductor Notes:

For SSAA a cappella, this crystalline arrangement of the traditional German carol “O Jesulein Zart” dances in its 5/4 metre in a style reminiscent of Rajaton’s arrangements. The alto 2 line is very low, to the point where, with some creative switching of lines, this arrangement could be done quite comfortably by a mixed-voice youth choir. Be sure to listen to Winnie’s female ensemble from Berlin, Niniwe, perform this here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQNhtJbnchQ. Although this is published in a Christmas compilation of Winnie’s arrangements, through the publisher I was able to purchase the rights to make my own copies of just this one piece (and her Silent Night). Note that both German and English versions are available.

O Jesus, sweet child, how hard is your bed.
O Jesus, sweet child, for your tender head!
Sleep now, oh close your eyes in peace,
and grant us, in you, blessed release.
Child Jesus, so sweet, we lie at your feet.

Winds, gentle and mild, disturb not the child!
All storming must cease, your Lord is at peace!
Sleep, child, oh close your eyes in peace,
and grant us, in you, blessed release.
Winds, gentle and mild, disturb not the child!

With peace all around, no movement or sound
the silence will break; the child will not wake.
Sleep then, and close your eyes in peace,
and grant us, in you, blessed release.
And may the Lord keep you safe in sweet sleep.