This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
God from on high hath heard
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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God from on high hath heard by Joseph Barnby — Lyrics
God from on high hath heard;
Let sighs and sorrows cease;
Lo! from the opening Heav’n descends
To man the promised Peace.
Hark! through the silent night
Angelic voices swell;
Their joyful songs proclaim that God
Is born on earth to dwell.
See how the shepherd band
Speed on with eager feet;
Come to the hallowed cave with them
The Holy Babe to greet.
But, oh, what sight appears
Within that lowly door!
A manger, stall, and swaddling clothes,
A Child and mother poor!
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About God from on high hath heard
Joseph Barnby's setting of God from on high hath heard is a sacred piece for SATB choir. Its English text opens with the announcement that God has heard prayers and is sending peace, with a focus on the birth of Christ. The lyrics describe the angelic announcement, the shepherds' visit to the manger, and the choir's expression of faith in the infant Jesus as the Son of God. This hymn-like setting, drawing on traditional sacred themes, is suitable for choirs looking for a devotional anthem for the Christmas season. The music likely reflects the joyous yet humble nature of the Nativity story.
