I continue to be enchanted by Kate Rusby’s traditional folk renditions of Christmas songs.
The lyrics to While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night have been sung to many tunes according to regional preference and custom.
Last year at mgpc we sang the words to the tune Lyngham Extended (O For A Thousand Tongues).
On her first Christmas album Rusby sang another version of While Shepherds Watched as the title track, Sweet Bells.
On her second Christmas album, While Mortals Sleep the lyrics are sung to another traditional tune, Cranbrook.
As you listen to any of these three versions you’ll perceive how they are suited to various harmonies being added by lusty voices in cramped rooms.
The more, the merrier.
Have a listen.
1.
While shepherds watched
Their flocks by night
All seated on the ground
The angel of the Lord came down
The angel of the Lord came down
And glory shone around
And glory shone around
And glory shone around
2.
“Fear not,” he said,
For mighty dread
Had seized their troubled minds
“Glad tidings of great joy I bring
“Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind,
To you and all mankind,
To you and all mankind.”
3.
“To you in David’s
Town this day
Is born of David’s line
A Savior who is Christ the Lord
A Savior who is Christ the Lord
And this shall be the sign
And this shall be the sign
And this shall be the sign.”
4.
“All glory be to
God on high
And to the earth be peace;
Goodwill henceforth
From heaven to men
Goodwill henceforth
From heaven to men
Begin and never cease
Begin and never cease
Begin and never cease!”
5.
While shepherds watched
Their flocks by night
All seated on the ground
The angel of the Lord came down
The angel of the Lord came down
And glory shone around
And glory shone around
And glory shone around
mgpcpastor's blog 