Date: 2019
A new composition of mine setting words of an old favourite carol: "The angel Gabriel from heaven came". It emerged from a brief set by Morley College for a Christmas piece scored for their SABar a cappella choir in 2019. The title refers to its accompaniment based on a few simple change-ringing sequences for six church bells. The rhythm is jaunty and challenging, but the overall effect is intended to be joyful and exciting!
Links: pdf (score) - mp3 - midi - mxl - sib - sib 6
Words:
1.
The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
His wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame.
'All hail', said he, 'thou lowly maiden Mary,
Most highly favoured lady!'
Gloria!
2.
'For known a blessed Mother thou shalt be;
All generations laud and honour thee:
Thy son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold.'
Most highly favoured lady!'
Gloria!
3.
Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head.
'To me be as it pleaseth God,' she said.
'My soul shall laud and magnify his holy name.'
Most highly favoured lady!
Gloria!
4.
Of her Emmanuel, the Christ was born,
In Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn;
And Christian folk throughout the world will ever say:
Most highly favoured lady!
Gloria!
English words by Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924), translated from a traditional Basque carol
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