On a Catalonian Carol is a setting of the traditional Catalan carol El Noi de la Mare (The Child of the Mother). This lyric carol originates from the Catalan region of Spain, and the stylish influences of that country are evident in the flowing lines of the touching melody. This setting is not a direct transcription of the song but rather a carefully scored rendition that supports and enhances the elements of the original, allowing the simple beauty of the melody to be placed on full display.