The Apple Tree

Based on the traditional carol text, The Apple Tree radiates a radiant and warm character with a gentle, folk-like melody.

The organ begins with a tree-like growth opening up to a gradually unfolding canonic texture in the voices.

With no further divisi than SATB, this piece is perfect for a Lessons and Carols service or other Advent music programs.

The text used in this piece is below:

The tree of life my soul hath seen,
Laden with fruit and always green;
The trees of Nature fruitless be,
Compared with Christ the Apple Tree.

His beauty doth all things excel,
By faith I know but ne’er can tell
The glory which I now can see,
In Jesus Christ the Apple Tree.

For happiness I long have sought,
And pleasure dearly I have bought;
I missed of all; but now I see
'Tis found in Christ the Apple Tree.

I’m weary with my former toil -
Here I will sit and rest awhile:
Under the shadow I will be,
Of Jesus Christ the Apple Tree.

This fruit doth make my soul to thrive,
It keeps my dying faith alive;
Which makes my soul in haste to be
With Jesus Christ the Apple Tree.