This edition was prepared by Richard Mix — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Good King Wenceslas
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
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7 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Good King Wenceslas — Lyrics
1.
Good King Wenceslas looked out on the Feast of Stephen,
When the snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even.
Brightly shone the moon that night, though the frost was cruel,
When a poor man came in sight, gathering winter fuel.
2.
"Hither, page, and stand by me, if thou know'st it, telling,
Yonder peasant, who is he? Where and what his dwelling?"
"Sire, he lives a good league hence, underneath the mountain,
Right against the forest fence, by Saint Agnes' fountain."
3.
"Bring me food and bring me wine, bring me pine logs hither,
Thou and I will see him dine, when we bear them thither."
Read full lyrics
About Good King Wenceslas
This familiar Christmas carol tells the story of a king who bravely ventures out into a harsh winter's night to bring food and warmth to a poor subject. The text paints a vivid scene of devotion and charity, highlighting the contrast between the cold, cruel elements and the compassionate actions of the king and his page. Arranged for SATB choir, this English setting captures the narrative's warmth and its enduring message of kindness. It is a well-loved piece, often programmed for Christmas services and concerts, offering a chance for choirs to connect with a widely recognized and cherished Yuletide story through song.
