Song of the Birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ
A Baroque gem arranged for for SATB Choir, soloists, organ, and two violins (or other C-instruments). English-language translation from the Latin original. Optional cello for the basso continuo. Once your choir gets a grip on the French baroque style, they'll love it.
Length 10' 30"
The String Parts are in the EXTRAS (ZIP) File.
Prelude.
Recit.
There were in the same country Shepherds abiding in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night. And lo, an angel appeared to them, an angel of the Lord; the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. But then the angel said to them:
Air.
Be not afraid, ye shepherds. For behold, I bring glad tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.
For this day is born in the City of David a Saviour, 'tis Christ the Lord. And this shall be the sign:
You shall find the babe, lying in a manger. Hurry, hurry, ye shepherds, there adore him.
Chorus.
Awaken, let us hasten to go unto Bethlehem. There we shall see the wonder that was told to us.
Our praise to offer him, and to adore the babe who is Saviour of the world to us given.
Why? Why then tarry? Ye shepherds, why tarry?
Marche.
Recit. et Air.
And when these humble shepherds arrived at the place where the child had been born, they knew the wonders told to them by the angels. They saw Mary and Joseph and the baby in a manger.
Kneeling beside, they sang of their adoration in rustic but devoted songs of joy thus saying:
Air et Chorus.
On this day earth shall ring with the song shepherds sing, to the Lord Christ, the King, born here this day.
Now let us all rejoice, with heart and soul, and voice, this gift his gracious choice, now and alway.
Ritornello
Born of a Virgin mild, spotless, and undefiled, He is the holy child come from above.
Children of every race, see then the Father's face, the babe who from his grace, sent here in love.
Ritornello