Arise, shine, for thy light is come (Joseph Key)
Music files
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- (Posted 2026-01-17) CPDL #88103:
- Editor: Christopher Shaw (submitted 2026-01-17). Score information: A4, 22 pages, 476 kB Copyright: CC BY SA
- Edition notes: Please click on the link for preview/playback/PDF download. This edition includes separate parts for string quartet (viola is added editorially for balance in the choruses) together with a choir score with reduction of the instrumental parts for alternative performance with organ.
General Information
Title: Arise, shine, for thy light is come
Composer: Joseph Key
Lyricist: Isaiah 9: 6,2: Isaiah 49: 13; Isaiah 52: 7,9: Isaiah 60: 1; Matthew 21: 9; John 1: 29create page
Number of voices: 4vv Voicing: SATB
Genre: Sacred, Anthem
Language: English
Instruments: Mixed ensemble
First published: 1779 in Eleven Anthems, p. 44-51
Description: An anthem for Christmas Day, using a selection of apposite texts, largely drawn from Isaiah: the model is clearly Jennens' selection for Messiah. This piece, in West Gallery style, was intended for organless parishes. Key published instrumental parts to accompany the choir, comprised of traditional West Gallery trio-sonata scoring (in this instance, two oboes and bassoon): in performance a range of instruments may be employed, drawn from violins, flutes, oboes, clarinets, 'cellos, bassoons and serpents.
External websites:
Original text and translations
English text
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.
The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light:
And they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called:
Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Behold the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world.
Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord:
Hosanna in the highest.
Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; break forth into singing, O mountains:
for the Lord hath comforted his people.
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of Him that bringeth good tidings,
that published peace and salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth.
Break forth into joy. Hallelujah.