Publisher Desc.  The English Folk song melody "Greensleeves" first appeared sometime during the 16th century and has grown in popularity ever since. It is now known throughout the world predominantly through its pairing with William Chatterton Dix's text, "What Child Is This," penned in 1868. As a result, the haunting Greensleeves melody is usually associated with Christmas, even when played instrumentally. Over the years, composers have adapted this melody in many different ways and set it in many different styles. This new arrangement for chamber orchestra is no exception. A slight variation in the tune's rhythm allows it great freedom to be contrapuntally imitated and then heard in canon at the fifth. The result is a pastoral setting evoking tranquil images of the first Christmas night.