The lyrics were written by Charles Wesley.
The tune as we know it today was composed (separate from the lyrics) by Mendelssohn for the 400th anniversary celebration of the Gutenberg moveable type printing press. He decided to use religious text to celebrate Gutenberg. Probably because one of Gutenberg’s major accomplishments was the publication in 1455 of 180 copies of the Bible.
After the celebrations, people would come up to Mendelssohn and tell him that the tune was wonderful and could be "something sacred" to which Mendelssohn said, “[This tune] will never work with a sacred text.” How ironic that 20 years later, this tune would get put to the lyrics Wesley wrote!
“Hark” means to listen up or put another way, “harken” to what is being said. So listen and share what you think is being said! Leave a comment below.
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!
Joyful, all ye nations, rise;
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th'angelic host proclaim
Christ is born in Bethlehem!
Chorus
Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn King!
Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
Ris'n with healing in his wings.
Mild he lays his glory by,
Born that man no more may die;
Born to raise the sons of earth,
Born to give them second birth.
Chorus
Performed by: Mormon Tabernacle Choir with the Orchestra on Temple Square
Arranged by: Mac Wilberg
Text: Charles Wesley
Music: Felix Mendelssohn
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