The simplicity of this setting, for two-part choir and piano, mirrors the carol’s message of the simple setting of Christ’s birth: in a lowly manger amidst the oxen. An included oboe part references the pastoral topic of the second verse: the shepherd's vigil. Despite some independence of vocal parts, the piece will come together easily: choirs of all abilities can achieve a balanced, polished sound relatively quickly, which can be a real plus when facing limited rehearsal time.
