The Shepherds

Théodore-César Salomé (20 January 1834 – 26 July 1896) was born in Paris. He completed all of his musical studies at the Conservatoire de Paris, under the tutelage of François Bazin for harmony and accompaniment, and François Benoist for organ. He won several honorable awards, including: second prize in harmony (1855), second prize in organ and in harmony (1856), second and third prize in harmony and organ (1857), and second prize in harmony (1859). His cantata Atala was awarded the premier Second Grand Prix of the Prix de Rome in 1861. In the same year Théodore Dubois was awarded the first grand prize, and Eugène Anthiome and Titus Constantin won the deuxième Second Grand Prix. He was highly regarded, and served as "Choir Organist" at La Trinité in Paris for many
years.

I recall that Salomé was recommended for many major jobs, but for some reason, probably political, he never "got the big one," remaining as the "assistant" at La Trinité for the bulk of his career.

This very nice miniature can be found in "Christmas Music for Organ", published by the Boston Music Company in 1914, and edited by Dr. William C. Carl.

I tend to try to observe markings as much as I can. Even if they are editorial, as in this case, I try them before rejecting them. However, in this case, the metronome has to be too fast. I think my shepherds are quite lively, but even these guys are 20 marks slower than the speed indicated... :-)

Also, Dr. Carl, the editor, is not clear what manual should be used, etc., so, I've done this the way I thought it was best.

At any rate, I think you'll find this to be very appealing, and even charming, although that word is overused.

The score is attached below, as well as two photos of Théodore Salomé, a period picture of La Trinité in Paris.