When Christ was Born of Mary Free

Program Notes:

This 15th century text is “macaronic”, which is to say it alternates between two languages – English and Latin. Here the angels’ exclaim “Gloria in excelsis Deo” [Glory to God in the highest].

Conductor Notes:

SS and piano. Bright and energetic with mixed metres. Suitable for adults or children. The tessitura is high for the altos [but it’s good for them!]

Composer / Arranger Notes:

Particularly effective for young voices, this lilting melody gathers momentum and bursts into a joyous “Gloria in excelsis”. A winner in the Amadeus Choir Carol Competition.

Text:

15th Century English When Christ was born of Mary free, in Bethlehem, in that fair city, Angels sung e’er with mirth and glee, “In excelsis gloria! Gloria, gloria, in excelsis gloria.” Christo paremus cantica: “In excelsis gloria!” Herdsmen beheld these angels bright, To them appeared with great light, And said, “God’s son is born this night: “In excelsis gloria! Gloria, gloria, in excelsis gloria.” Christo paremus cantica: “In excelsis gloria.” This King is come to save his kind, In the Scripture as we find: Therefore this song have we in mind: “In excelsis gloria! Gloria, gloria, in excelsis gloria.” Christo paremus cantica: “In excelsis gloria!” Then, dear Lord, for thy great grace, Grant us the bliss to see thy face, Where we may sing to they solace: “In excelsis gloria! Gloria, gloria, in excelsis gloria.” Christo paremus cantica: “In excelsis gloria!”