This edition was prepared by Crys Armbrust — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Behold That Splendour (from Three Choral Nativity Carols)
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
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Behold That Splendour (from Three Choral Nativity Carols) by Crys Armbrust — Lyrics
Behold that splendour: hear the shout!
Heav'n opens; angels issue out
And throng the nether sky.
What solemn tidings do they bring?
Rapt at th'approach of Israel's King,
They speak the Monarch nigh.
Why does the King approach our land?
Comes he with thunder in his hand,
The merit of our crimes?
Shepherds, be glad: he comes with peace,
Not wrath, but universal grace,
To bless ev'n distant climes.
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About Behold That Splendour (from Three Choral Nativity Carols)
Crys Armbrust's Behold That Splendour is a sacred Christmas carol for SATB choir, sung in English. The text describes the nativity with a sense of wonder and awe. It opens with the announcement of celestial splendor and angelic tidings, heralding the approach of Israel's King. The carol then contemplates the nature of this King's arrival, emphasizing peace and universal grace rather than wrath. It highlights the paradox of the divine heir being born to a woman, with a manger as his throne, and ultimately accepting suffering for humanity's gain. The piece concludes with an invocation for the King to dwell in the hearts of the faithful.
