Two-Part choir, Piano with Flute Solo
Words by Luther, Music by Kirkpatrick & anonymous sources,
Arranged by M Ryan Taylor

This arrangement of Away in a Manger combines three well known tunes that are commonly associated with this beloved carol. Two tunes are sung in a gentle counterpoint, trading back and forth between the men and the womens voices, then the third tune takes up the second verse after which the counterpoint returns. The arrangement ends on the peaceful coda generally associated with tune three.

An SSATB arrangement of this carol is also available at ChoirWorks.com

The Text:
Away in a manger, No crib for his bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.
The stars in the heavens looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.

The The cattle are lowing, the poor baby wakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes.
I love thee, Lord Jesus, Look down from the sky,
And stay by my side until morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.