It was written by American Catholic writer Carey Landry (b 1944). It was first published in 1975 by North American Liturgy Resources (rights are now owned by OCP) and it has been included in several books from GIA Publications also. Sheet music is available for download from OCP in various formats.
With irregular meter it is set to a tune by Landry which was originally published in the key of G. The first few notes in this key are A, DDD GFE D_.
Downloads
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Examples
Small group with guitar - professional recording:
Small group with guitar accompaniment:
Solo singer with piano accompaniment:
Singer, self-accompanied on guitar:
Instrumental - piano:
Lyrics
The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website.The first verse is the traditional Hail Mary text. This is followed by the chorus, and this is repeated after each of the two remaining verses. A rough outline is:
Hail Mary, full of grace,
The Lord is with you.
Blessed are you among women
And blest is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary Mother of God,
Pray for us sinners now
And at the hour of our death.
Amen.
Chorus:
Gentle woman, quiet light,
Morning star, so strong and bright.
Gentle mother, peaceful dove,
Teach us wisdom, teach us love.
2 You were chosen by the Father ...
3 Blessed are you among women ...
Of the versions of this hymn that I have heard, this is the most beautiful.
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