This edition was prepared by Andrew Sims — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Blessed city, heavenly Salem
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
Preview
0
0
4 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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.
Blessed city, heavenly Salem by Henry Purcell — Lyrics
Part 1
Blessèd city, heavenly Salem,
vision dear of peace and love,
who of living stones art builded
in the height of heaven above,
and, with angel hosts encircled,
as a bride dost earthward move.
From celestial realms descending,
bridal glory round thee shed,
meet for him whose love espoused thee,
to thy Lord shalt thou be led;
all thy streets and all thy bulwarks
of pure gold are fashionèd.
Bright thy gates of pearl are shining,
they are open evermore;
and by virtue of his merits
thither faithful souls do soar,
who for Christ’s dear name in this world
pain and tribulation bore.
Many a blow and biting sculpture
polished well those stones elect,
Read full lyrics
About Blessed city, heavenly Salem
Henry Purcell's setting of Blessed city, heavenly Salem is a four-part (SATB) anthem for mixed choir. The English text describes the celestial Jerusalem, the New Jerusalem, as a bride descending from heaven, built of living stones and adorned with pearls and gold. It draws parallels between the heavenly city and the earthly church, noting that faithful souls who have endured suffering in this life will ascend to its gates. The music reflects the solemnity and glory of the text, offering a profound musical meditation on themes of redemption and heavenly reward. This piece is a stirring example of English sacred music from the late Baroque period.
