Hark! The Herald Banjo Rings
Christmas 2008
December 10
"The First Nowell" is another traditional English carol. This carol adapted quite well to the banjo, and was fun to play. There are a total of nine verses, but I've included only the six listed in the Presbyterian Hymnal.
The First Nowell
Words: Traditional English carol, 17th century
Music: THE FIRST NOWELL, English Carol
The first Nowell the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.
Refrain
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
Born is the King of Israel.
They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the east beyond them far,
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night.
Refrain
And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a king was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went.
Refrain
This Star drew nigh to the North West;
O'er Bethlehem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay,
Right over the place where Jesus lay.
Refrain
Then entered in those wise men three,
Fell reverently upon their knee,
And offered there in His presence,
Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.
Refrain
Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord,
That hath made heaven and earth of nought,
And with his blood our life hath bought.
Refrain
Sources and more information
- Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990.
- Hymns and Carols of Christmas
- Cyber Hymnal