There were shepherds abiding in the field (Joseph Key)
Music files
| ICON | SOURCE |
|---|---|
 |
Web Page |
 |
File details |
 |
Help |
- (Posted 2026-01-17) CPDL #88104:
- Editor: Christopher Shaw (submitted 2026-01-17). Score information: A4, 18 pages, 401 kB Copyright: CC BY SA
- Edition notes: Please click on the link for preview/playback/PDF download. This edition includes separate parts for string quartet (viola is added editorially for balance in the choruses) together with a choir score with reduction of the instrumental parts for alternative performance with organ.
General Information
Title: There were shepherds abiding in the field
Composer: Joseph Key
Lyricist: Luke 2: 8-14create page
Number of voices: 4vv Voicing: SATB
Genre: Sacred, Anthem
Language: English
Instruments: Mixed ensemble
First published: 1774 Eight Anthems
Description: An anthem for Christmas Day. This piece, in West Gallery style, was intended for organless parishes. Key published instrumental parts to accompany the choir, comprised of traditional West Gallery trio-sonata scoring (in this instance, violin, oboe and bass): in performance a range of instruments may be employed, drawn from violins, flutes, oboes, clarinets, 'cellos, bassoons and serpents.
External websites:
Original text and translations
English text
There were shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Hallelujah.