The melody and text of this arrangement come from a traditional Polish carol. For those of you who are familiar with Still, Still, Still, you will hear a familiar part of that Austrian carol in the chorus.
I originally scored this for SATB choir with viola, cello, cello accompaniment. Since this is fairly uncommon, I’m including a version with a piano transcription below as well. Enjoy!
Music: trad. Polish carol Text: trad. Polish carol Arranged: Richard Tolbert Created: Oct 2010 Duration: 00:03:53
Lyrics:
1. Christ is born this evening,
Let us go rejoicing!
Though the night so gloomy,
Day will soon be dawning!
Angels from on high are singing
To the One who comes from heaven:
"Gloria, Gloria, Gloria,
In excelsis Deo!
Angels from on high are singing
To the One who comes from heaven:
"Gloria, Gloria, Gloria,
In excelsis Deo!
2. Shepherds, hasten yonder,
Where the Babe most holy,
In this cold December,
Lies in manger lowly.
See the star on high is gleaming
O'er the lovely Infant beaming!
"Gloria, Gloria, Gloria,
In excelsis Deo!
In excelsis Deo!