The musical score for the traditional Christmas carol “What Child Is This?” provides a written representation of the melody, harmony, and structure of the piece. This notation allows musicians of varying skill levels to perform the carol accurately and consistently. A typical example includes the melody line, chord symbols (or full piano accompaniment), and lyrics, enabling vocalists and instrumentalists to collaborate effectively.
Accessibility to this notation is critical for preserving and disseminating the carol’s legacy. Its availability fosters widespread performance during the Christmas season, in both formal and informal settings. Historically, the carol combines the melody of “Greensleeves” with new lyrics by William Chatterton Dix, making the notation a key component in understanding and appreciating this fusion of musical elements.