In Bethlehem, That Noble Place
COMPOSER’S NOTE
This attractive fifteenth-century text has inspired a setting which is reminiscent of medieval tonality and rhythm.
Dynamic contrast is important within the strophic framework but the choral tone should not be too rich, with a more restrained approach towards expression being preferable. The frequent changes of time signature are intended to point both conductor and singers towards an idiomatic sense of phrasing but the quaver moment must be even throughout, without unnecessary stresses at the beginning of a bar. Some of the verse openings are exposed and it is advised that the first note of a verse is placed firmly and confidently in order to maintain momentum.
DURATION
3 minutes
CHORUS
unaccompanied SATB
YEAR OF COMPOSITION
2023
PUBLISHER
Hawes Music
SHEET MUSIC
Available from
Hawes Music
JW Pepper
Music Room
Music Shop Europe
IN BETHLEHEM, THAT NOBLE PLACE
In Bethlehem, that noble place,
As by prophecy said it was,
Of the Virgin Mary full of grace,
Salvator mundi natus est.
Refrain:
Be we merry in this feast,
In quo Salvator natus est.
On Christmas night, an Angel it told
To the shepherds keeping their fold,
That into Bethlehem with beastës would,
Salvator mundi natus est. Refrain
The shepherds were encompassed right,
About them was a great light;
“Dread ye naught,” said the angel bright,
Salvator mundi natus est.” Refrain
“Behold, to you we bring great joy.
For why? Jesus is born this day;
To us, of Mary, that mild may,
Salvator mundi natus est.” Refrain
And thus in faith find it ye shall,
Lying poorly in an ox-stall.
The shepherds then lauded God all,
Quia Salvator mundi natus est. Refrain
Words: James Ryman (15th Century)
