Angels We Have Heard On High

This page includes a lyric video, a brief history, sheet music, and other resources for the Christmas carol “Angels We Have Heard On High.” Enjoy!

Enjoy this You Tube video with lyrics of “Angels We Have Heard On High”:

History of “Angels We Have Heard On High”:

The earliest known printed version of “Angels We Have Heard On High” was in an 1842 French song book. Though the source of the song is unknown, it is believed to have originated in 18thcentury France.The song was first translated into English in 1860 by James Chadwick, a Roman Catholic bishop.

Chadwick was born to an English father and Irish mother. Though he was born in Ireland, he was educated in England and spent the remainder of his life there. After attending Ushaw college, a combined college and seminary, and being ordained as a priest, Chadwick served for several years there as a professor in humanities (mainly teaching philosophy and theology). In 1866, Chadwick was elected bishop of Hexham and Newcastle and worked in this capacity until his death. As a bishop, Chadwick served as a “shepherd” of God’s people. It seems appropriate that he would translate the words of the angels as given to shepherds at Jesus’ birth — “Gloria, in Excelsis Deo,” Latin for “Glory to God in the Highest” (Luke 2:14).

Just as the origin of the words to this French song is unknown, so also is the melody. Since it was common for text to be written for existing tunes, it is possible that the melody is even older than the words. The tune as we know it today was adapted and arranged by Edward Shippen Barnes. He was a talented organist who received training from gifted musicians at both Yale University and the Schola Cantorum in Paris. Having studied in France, it seems fitting that Barnes would arrange this traditional French carol.

After returning from France, Barnes devoted his talent to serving God as an organist in churches all across the U.S. (New York, Pennsylvania and California).  Barnes also composed organ symphonies, wrote a book on methods of organ playing and even served in the Naval Reserve during World War I. However, his most lasting contribution proved to be his musical arrangement for “Angels We Have Heard on High.” After all, this music accompanies the voices of people who sing about their utmost purpose in life — bringing “glory to God in the highest.”

For more intriguing history on “Angels We Have Heard On High” (and 19 other classic Christmas songs), you can purchase our Christmas Songs eBook (only $2.99; use code “celebrate20” for 20% off).

You can also download our free, complimentary Sheet Music for “Angels We Have Heard On High.”

For additional resources (like original sheet music), visit Hymns and Carols of Christmas or Net Hymnal.

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