A Spotless Rose (Three Carol-Anthems, No. 2)

Howells, Herbert (1892–1983)

Voicing:
Mixed Choir → SATB
Solo Voice

Accompaniment:
Unaccompanied

Occasion:

Proper of Time → Christmas Season → The Nativity of the Lord → General
Proper of Time → Christmas Season → The Solemnity of Mary, The Holy Mother of God
Commons → Common of the Blessed Virgin Mary → In Christmas Time

Publication Information:
Galaxy (Stainer & Bell) — 1.5014 (1919)

Text Information:
Reference: Anonymous, 14th century

Duration: 2:30
Lyrics:

A Spotless Rose is blowing,
Sprung from a tender root,
Of ancient seers’ foreshowing,
Of Jesse promised fruit;
Its fairest bud unfolds to light
Amid the cold, cold winter,
And in the dark midnight.

The Rose which I am singing,
Whereof Isaiah said,
Is from its sweet root springing
In Mary, purest Maid;
For through our God’s great love and might,
The Blessed Babe she bare us
In a cold, cold winter’s night.

Notes: SATB with divisi in all parts, and Baritone solo.
Submitted by: Brian Luckner Added: Oct 30, 2021 Last updated: Jan 21, 2022