Hark! The Herald Banjo Rings
Christmas 2011
November 30
A Gallery Carol
Performed by Greg Barlow on banjo
Words and music: from an old church-gallery book discovered in Dorset by Rev. L.J.T. Darwall
Also known as Rejoice and Be Merry, A Gallery Carol belongs to the tradition songs played and sung from the galleries of churches by bands and choirs before organs became popular. This carol was found by Rev. L.J.T. Darwall in a Dorset church-gallery songbook.
Lyrics
Rejoice and be merry in songs and in mirth!
O praise our Redeemer, all mortals on earth!
For this is the birthday of Jesus our King,
Who brought us salvation - his praises we'll sing!
A heavenly vision appeared in the sky;
Vast numbers of angels the shepherds did spy,
Proclaiming the birthday of Jesus our King,
Who brought us salvation - his praises we'll sing!
Likewise a bright star in the sky did appear,
Which led the wise men from the East to draw near;
They found the Messiah, sweet Jesus our King,
Who brought us salvation - his praises we'll sing!
And when they were come, they their treasures unfold,
And unto him offered myrrh, incense, and gold.
So blessed for ever be Jesus our King,
Who brought us salvation - his praises we'll sing!
Sources and more information
- Oxford Book of Carols, 1964.
- Hymns and Carols of Christmas