The angel Gabriel from heaven came

This is the 22nd entry in the Advent-Hymn-of-the-Day Project. It is also the 4th Sunday of Advent - a time when we think on both the Annunciation and Incarnation of Jesus.

By the way, this is my 600th upload! :-)

This "hymn" today has become very popular, but it really isn't a hymn as such. It is an old Basque carol that was arranged and harmonized by Edgar Pettman (1866-1943), who was organist of a number of London churches. He is also known for his harmonization of "The Infant King"".

The fine words were translated from the original Basque by Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924), who was an Anglican priest and an eclectic scholar. He is best remembered for hymns such as "Onward, Christian soldiers", and "Now the day is over."

In case you don't know (I didn't) the Basque Country is a region that spans northeastern Spain and southwestern France.

For this performance, I use only mild 8',4', and 2' stops. I took a straightforward "hymn-like" approach to the performance. Even so, it sounds a bit "lumpy" to my ears. This is really intended to be sung a cappella.

The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
His wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame;
"All hail", said he, "thou lowly maiden, Mary,
Most highly favored Lady.
Gloria!"

For know a blessed mother shalt be,
All generations laud and and honour thee,
Thy Son shall be Emmauel, by seers foretold."
Most highly favoured Lady.
Gloria!"

Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head,
"To me be as it pleaseth God," she said,
"My soul shall laud and magnify his Holy Name."
Most highly favoured Lady.
"Gloria!"

Of her Emmanuel the Christ was born
In Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn.
And Christian folk throughout the world
Shall ever say: "Most highly favoured Lady,
Gloria!"