A Child Is Born

Thaddeus Jones, a well-known trumpet player and composer, was one of 10 children born into a musical family in Detroit. His bio of achievements in both the U.S. and Europe is extensive and impressive. He wrote “A Child Is Born” as a gentle, jazz instrumental waltz in 1959. English lyrics by Fred Jay were added a bit later.  Mitchell has penned a transcription faithful to the original and features handchimes introducing the tune in its entirety.  A gentle segue to all bells repeats the tune and leads to a 4-measure ending – again all handchimes. The entire spirit of the piece is calm, peaceful and gentle. Tempo should be relaxed and flowing … suggested is quarter note = 60-68.