This edition was prepared by Ian Haslam — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
I saw three ships
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
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I saw three ships by Arthur Warrell — Lyrics
I saw three ships come sailing by,
On Christmas Day,
on Christmas Day,
I saw three ships come sailing by,
On Christmas Day in the morning.
And what was in those ships all three,
On Christmas Day,
on Christmas Day,
Our Saviour Christ and His ladye,
On Christmas Day in the morning.
Pray whither sailed those ships all three,
On Christmas Day,
on Christmas Day,
Read full lyrics
About I saw three ships
This spirited arrangement of the traditional carol "I saw three ships" paints a vivid scene of a joyous Christmas morning. The text recounts the wondrous sight of three ships sailing by, carrying Our Saviour Christ and His Ladye, towards Bethlehem. As the ships arrive, the jubilant message unfolds: all the bells on earth shall ring, and angels in heaven shall sing. The composer's setting for SATB choir, with optional divisi, captures the celebratory atmosphere of this iconic Christmas narrative. The English lyrics, deeply rooted in the Christmas story, evoke a profound sense of rejoicing and wonder, making this a fitting choice for a festive choral programme.
