This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Christmas bells at sea
Staff Notation • Sacred, Art songs
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Christmas bells at sea by Arthur Sullivan — Lyrics
Still the night and calm the ocean,
Dazzling bright each wintry star;
Scarcely felt the vessel's motion,
When we heard from out afar
Softly pealing,
Gently stealing,
Silv'ry bells in volleys ringing,
Ringing out in holy glee;
E'en to us glad tidings bringing,
Christmas bells at sea.
Wrapt in awe around them gazing,
Mute the crew in wonder stand,
Whence could come those sounds amazing,
Far from sight or sound of land?
Rising, falling,
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About Christmas bells at sea
Arthur Sullivan's Christmas bells at sea is a carol for unison voices, with English text. The music captures a sense of awe and wonder as the sounds of bells are heard from afar, far from land. The text speaks of a "solemn mystery" and "glad tidings," bringing thoughts of home and heaven to those at sea. The piece moves from the serene depiction of the night sky and calm ocean to the powerful, almost spiritual experience of hearing the distant bells. It concludes with a reflection on God's love, suggesting the bells' message is one of divine reassurance and peace, even in the vastness of the ocean.
