The Maker of the sun and moon

This charming cradle-song takes its melody from D. G. Corner's "Geistliche Nachtingall", published in Vienna in 1649. The tune is named "In der Weigen". In this version, the harmonization is by Martin Shaw (18755-1958).

The text is by Laurence Housman (1865 – 1959) was an English playwright, writer and illustrator.

Although appearing as a hymn in the "New English Hymnal," this would actually work much better if sung as an a cappella carol.

The text is given below. The last few measures are given as the introduction.

The Maker of the sun and moon,
The Maker of the earth,
Lo! late in time, a fairer boon,
Himself is brought to birth!

How blest was all creation then,
When God so gave increase;
And Christ to heal the hearts of men,
Brought righteousness and peace!

No star in all the heights of heaven
But burned to see him go;
Yet unto earth alone was given
His human form to know.

His human form, by man denied,
Took death for human sin:
His endless love, though faith descried,
Still lives the world to win.

O perfect Love, outpassing sight,
O Light beyond our ken,
Come down through all the world to-night,
And heal the hearts of men.

The score is attached below, as well as photos of Martin Shaw and of Laurence Housman.

Tomorrow: "Adeste fideles" (Three Christmas Preludes, No. 1) - T. H. Candyn

"Merry Christmas" (Australian Carol) - William James

I wish ALL of you a very Merry Christmas, and peace and happiness in the New Year!