It was common in English churches between 1700–1850, where the style of hymnody now known for being performed in the “West Gallery” developed, for the music to be played instrumentally as well as sung. Awake! Behold! was collected in Eversley, Hampshire by Rose Yeomans and arranged in four parts by Roger Watson. We are most grateful to Sarah Morgan for sending us this arrangement, which her trio Craig Morgan Robson had adapted and recorded a cappella on their delightful CD Stranded. For our instrumental “symphony” here, Andy’s son Arthur Davis guests on trumpet.

Awake! Behold! This glorious morn proclaims our Savior’s birth
Hark how the heavenly angels sing as they descend to earth
Hark how the heavenly angels sing as they descend to earth

Awake! Behold! This Prince of Peace to you great joy I bring
Ye shepherds join with seraphs bright to hail the new-born King
Ye shepherds join with seraphs bright to hail the new-born King

© Golden Hind Music