This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Alstead
Staff Notation • Sacred
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATB · Barry Johnston
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Alstead by Oliver Holden — Lyrics
Original 86. 86.
Shepherds rejoice, lift up your eyes,
And send your fears away;
News from the regions of the skies,
Salvation's born today:
Jesus, the God whom angels fear,
Comes down to dwell with you;
Today he makes his entrance here,
But not as monarchs do.
No gold nor purple swaddling bands,
Nor royal shining things;
A manger for his cradle stands,
And holds the King of kings.
Go, shepherds, where the infant lies,
And see his humble throne;
With tears of joy in all your eyes,
Go, shepherds, kiss the Son.
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About Alstead
Oliver Holden's Alstead is a sacred piece for SATB choir in English. Set to familiar Christmas text, it jubilantly proclaims the birth of Jesus. The lyrics vividly contrast the humble circumstances of Christ's arrival – a manger for his cradle – with his divine status as King of Kings. The music likely reflects this juxtaposition, moving from the shepherds' initial rejoicing to the awe-inspired praise of the heavenly host. It is a spirited setting of a text that has long resonated, capturing the joy and wonder of the Nativity story.
