This edition was prepared by Ross Jallo — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Adam lay yBounden
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
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3 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Adam lay yBounden by Peter Warlock — Lyrics
Adam lay ybounden,
Bounden in a bond:
Four thousand winter
Thought he not too long.
And all was for an apple,
An apple that he took,
As clerkès finden
Written in their book.
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About Adam lay yBounden
This carol is ideal for Christmas services or concerts. Peter Warlock's setting of the anonymous 15th-century English text is for unison voices. The lyrics tell the story of Adam's fall and redemption, linking it to the coming of Mary as Queen of Heaven and the birth of Christ. The music reflects the narrative, moving from the somber image of Adam's bondage to the joyous 'Deo gracias' of redemption. Its directness and memorable melody make it an accessible and moving choice for choirs of all abilities during the festive season.
