This setting of words by Rev. Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924) is for unaccompanied SATB choir without divisi.
Its four verses reflect on four phases of Christ’s life – as an infant in the manger watched over by the angels, in grief and sorrow, at his crucifixion and in his Easter triumph over death. The lullaby refrain is a bittersweet reflection on all that is to come for the Infant King.
The work is suitable for concert performance, as well as for liturgical use during Christmastide.
It can be heard in rehearsal, and the score can be followed, in the video below:
The carol is published by Chichester Music Press and copies can be ordered from their website.