This edition was prepared by Andrew Sims — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
I sing of a mayden
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
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I sing of a mayden by Richard R. Terry — Lyrics
I. Tryste Noël
1. The Ox he openeth wide the Doore,
And from the Snowe he calls her inne,
And he hath seen her smile therefor,
Our Ladye without sinne.
Now soone from sleepe
A starre shall lepe,
And soone arrive both King and Hinde:
Amen, Amen:
But O, the Place could I but finde.
2. The Ox hath hush'd his voyce and bent
Trewe eyes of pity o’er the Mow,
And on his lovelie Neck, forespent,
The Blessed lays her Browe.
Around her feet
Full warm and sweete
His bowerie breath doth meekly dwell:
Amen, Amen.
But sore am I with vaine travel.
3. The Ox is host in Judah stall
And host of more than only one,
For close she gathereth withal
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About I sing of a mayden
Richard R. Terry's setting of I sing of a mayden paints a tender Christmas scene, focusing on the gentle intimacy between Mary, the infant Jesus, and the animals in the stable. The text, an English carol, opens with the ox's devotion, recognizing the sinless Lady and her smile. It then moves to the Blessed Virgin resting her brow on the ox's neck, finding warmth and solace in its presence. The lyrics further describe the ox as host, not only to Mary but also to her little Son, highlighting the humble beginnings of Christ's birth. This SATB arrangement captures the quiet, sacred atmosphere of the Nativity, bringing the familiar story to life with heartfelt expression.
