This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Jerusalem
Staff Notation • Sacred
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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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Jerusalem by James C. Lowry — Lyrics
William Burkitt, 1693
1. Jerusalem! my happy home,
When shall I come to thee?
When shall my labors have an end?
Thy joys when shall I see?
2. Thy gates are richly set with pearl,
Most glorious to behold;
Thy Walls are all of precious stone,
Thy streets are paved with gold.
3. Thy gardens and thy pleasant fruits
Continually are green;
There are such sweet and pleasant flowers
As ne'er before was seen.
4. If heaven be thus glorious,
Lord, why must I keep thence?
What folly is it that makes me loath
To die, and go from hence?
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About Jerusalem
James C. Lowry's setting of "Jerusalem" is a powerful anthem for SATB choir, drawing on a beloved 17th-century text by William Burkitt. The lyrics express a profound longing for heavenly Jerusalem, contrasting the tribulations of earthly life with the unimaginable glories of the afterlife. The music seeks to capture the fervent desire for spiritual ascent and the ultimate peace found in God's presence. This sacred work would be fitting for services focused on themes of hope, redemption, and the eternal kingdom, offering a moment of reflection and aspiration for both choir and congregation. Its English text makes it accessible, while the SATB voicing allows for rich harmonic expression.
