What Child Is This?

Based on the traditional English folk song, "Greensleeves," there is a haunting, soulful quality to the melody that inspired me to write this prelude. It starts simply enough with the similar lullaby-like quality found in "Away in a Manger," but the minor key makes it less restful and more contemplative in nature. It gradually becomes more complex, adding a harmony above the melody before the first statement of the refrain occurs adding another voice to the chords and ultimately leading to four-part chords. I then transition to a figure in the right hand to represent the twinkling of the stars as the melody is woven into the pattern before reaching a climax with the final statement of the refrain in full-throated adoration. The prelude then draws back in intensity, closing with the twinkling of the stars once again in the right hand and resolving to a major chord.