This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Bethlehem
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
Preview
0
0
2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATB · Gerd Eichler
Preview
Subscribed as
Want Sunday picks sent to another address too?
Free weekly email
Your choir should not be left out in what's trending
Sunday mass selections, psalms, and trending songs in your area — straight to your inbox.
Bethlehem by William Billings — Lyrics
While shepherds watch'd their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
Fear not, said he, (for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind),
Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.
To you, in David's town, this day
Is born of David's line
A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord,
And this shall be the sign.
Read full lyrics
About Bethlehem
William Billings, a self-taught American composer, was a key figure in early American church music. His setting of the familiar Christmas text, While shepherds watched their flocks by night, captures the narrative of the Nativity with directness and fervor. Written for SATB choir in English, this piece reflects the congregational singing style of the late 18th century, making it a powerful and accessible addition to any Christmas service or concert. The music mirrors the text's unfolding drama, from the shepherds' fear to the angelic proclamation of 'Glory to God on high'.
