SATB unaccompanied
A setting of the American tune by James Murray. From the introduction with its expression of the loneliness of giving birth away from home and safety, to the rocking motion and warmth of the harmonies of the verses, you will feel the tenderness and connection of mother and child. Score below.
Recording by Matthew Curtis, ChoralTracks.com
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PROGRAM NOTE
This setting uses the traditional words with the tune by James Murray, the one most familiar to American audiences. The introduction expresses the loneliness of giving birth away from home and safety. Listen for the rocking motion and warmth of the harmonies of the verses, and the tenderness of the connection of mother and child.
NOTES ON PERFORMANCE AND PREPARATION
The first two verses should feel more like they are in one than in three, almost a slow barcarolle. In those verses, the rolling eights should stay steady, but allow yourself some natural easing up at the ends of the verses. In the last verse, allow yourself free rubato.
TEXT
Away in a manger,
No crib for His bed
The little Lord Jesus
Laid down His sweet head
The stars in the bright sky
Looked down where He lay
The little Lord Jesus
Asleep on the hay
The cattle are lowing
The poor Baby wakes
But little Lord Jesus
No crying He makes
I love Thee, Lord Jesus
Look down from the sky
And stay by my side,
‘Til morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus,
I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever
And love me I pray
Bless all the dear children
In Thy tender care
And take us to heaven
To live with Thee there