This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Christmas Anthem
Staff Notation • Sacred, 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 · Barry Johnston
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Christmas Anthem by James P. Carrell — 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 Christmas Anthem
James P. Carrell's Christmas Anthem is a sacred work for SATB choir, set in English. This traditional anthem celebrates the nativity, drawing on the familiar story of the shepherds' visit to the infant Jesus. The text emphasizes the humble circumstances of Christ's birth, contrasting the divine King with earthly monarchs. It speaks of the shepherds' joy and the angelic proclamation of glory to God and peace on earth. Carrell's setting would suit any Christmas service, offering a familiar message in a straightforward choral style.
