There is a rose-tree (2012)
SATB unaccompanied
A rich and expressive setting of the popular Es ist ein Ros text, in a translation by Abbie Farwell Brown, suitable for Advent and Christmas. Dedicated to the memory of the composer’s teacher, Herbert Howells.
Oxford University Press: in O Come Emmanuel
Digital download of There is a Rose-Tree here: Sheet Music Plus (and from other OUP providers)
Scrolling score – listen and follow the music (performed by the Chapel Choir of Selwyn College, Cambridge, director Sarah MacDonald)
A different performance on YouTube
Performance on SoundCloud
Text:
There is a rose tree blooming In winter’s frost and cold;
Its flower comes from Jesse, A sign of peace from old.
It is the Rose of Love, No cruel wind can wither, No tempest can remove.
It was Isaiah who told us: This rose of which we sing
Brings us the Virgin Mary, The mother of our King.
It is the Rose of Love, No cruel wind can wither, No tempest can remove.
Lo, any life that shivers May shelter ‘neath that tree,
Each tender petal quivers With glowing mystery.
Amidst the sweetness curled, A golden heart is hidden,
The future of the world!
German 15th century, tr. Abbie Farwell Brown (1871-1927) altd.