The Maiden and Her Child

This is a hymn for Advent / Christmastide. It was written by Irish priest, song-writer and performer Liam Lawton, and originally published in his Ancient Days and Future Ways collection.

With meter 11.11.11.11, it is set to a traditional Irish tune known as COMFORT (from its use for O Comfort my People) or BI ÍOSA IM CHROÍSE.

Image adapted from The Nativity, da Mantova (1489 - c. 1537)

Downloads

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Arranged by John Mccann for unison and SATB. Inc guitar chords and alto-recorder part

Examples

Contemporary music group:

Choir with orchestra:

Professional recording:

Lyrics

The words are copyright - but are available here. The song has four verses, each with four line. A rough outline is:

In the words of the prophet is written the lines,
... the Maiden is with Child."

On the dust covered hill sides, in the quiet of the night
... for the Maiden and her Child.

In a bitter December on a night cold and still,
... the Maiden lulls her Child.

Across the many countries, across the days and years,
... 'Tis the Maiden and her Child.