Three Kings of Orient SOPRANO David Willcocks

Three Kings of Orient — David Willcocks - SATB rehearsal parts
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Three Kings of Orient — David Willcocks

Traditional text by John Henry Hopkins Jr.

Three Kings of Orient arranged by David Willcocks is a vibrant and ceremonial arrangement of the well-known Epiphany carol by John Henry Hopkins Jr., an American clergyman, writer, and composer who penned both the text and melody in the mid-19th century. In Three Kings of Orient, Willcocks combines stately harmonies and dynamic contrasts that heighten the sense of procession, mystery, and devotion. Sir David Willcocks, one of the most influential British choral conductors and arrangers of the 20th century, is celebrated for his elegant craftsmanship and his enduring contributions to the Carols for Choirs series, where this arrangement first became widely known.

Hopkins’ poetic text follows the journey of the three Magi as they travel toward Bethlehem bearing symbolic gifts for the Christ child. Each verse gives a different king a voice, exploring the meaning of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The refrain—“Star of wonder, star of night…”—expresses wonder at the guiding star and the sacredness of their pilgrimage.

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