A Babe Is Born in Bethlehem

Instrumentation Flute 2 Clarinets in Bb English Horn Bassoon 2 Horns in F Timpani Percussion 1 Suspended Cymbal, Bass Drum, Doumbek, Chimes Percussion 2 Crotales, Triangle Celesta Harp SATB Choir Violin I Violin II Viola Cello Contrabass Notes This new setting of "A Babe is Born in Bethlehem" for SATB choir and chamber orchestra is based on the medieval Latin Christmas text, "Puer natus in Bethlehem." The hymn dates back to the 13th century and is based on the opening lines of the Christmas Introit from the Graduale Romanum. This ancient text, found in many different redactions ranging from four to twelve stanzas, has likely been written by several authors. The English translation used in this arrangement is by Charles Porterfield Krauth (1823-1883), a pastor, theologian, and educator of the Lutheran church. The tune is a 19th-century anonymous folk song from Yorkshire, England, entitled "Spurn Point." Text A babe is born in Bethlehem, Therefore, rejoice Jerusalem; A lowly virgin gave him birth: Who rules the heav'ns and reigns o'er all the earth. He in a simple manger lay, Whom angels praise with joy alway; And wise men from the East did bring Their gold, myrrh, and incense to the newborn king. Now all our fears have passed away. Our Savior Christ was born this day; God's blessed children we became, And shall in heaven praise his holy name. There like the angels we shall be, And shall the Lord in glory see; With gladsome praises we adore Our Lord and Savior now and evermore. Alleluia!