This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Behold, I bring you good tidings
Staff Notation • Sacred, Verse anthems, Anthems
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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
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Behold, I bring you good tidings by Joseph Barnby — Lyrics
Behold, I bring you good[glad] tidings of great joy, which shall be to [you and] all people.
For unto you is born this day [in the city of David] a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
Glory to God in the highest, and on[in] earth peace, goodwill toward men.
Variant 1
O Jesu, born of Virgin pure,
Immortal glory be to Thee,
Whom with the Father we adore,
And Holy Ghost eternally.
Amen.
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About Behold, I bring you good tidings
The flowing lines and jubilant character of this anthem immediately announce its festive subject. The SATB choir is given rich harmonies and opportunities for expressive phrasing as the music unfolds. The composer draws on the familiar words from the Gospel of Luke to proclaim the birth of the Saviour, Christ the Lord. The texture often features homophonic passages for clarity and impact, interspersed with moments of gentle imitation. This setting is well-suited to conveying the profound joy and peace of the Nativity story, making it an excellent choice for Christmas services or concerts.
