Every Palm Sunday, without fail, my father’s church choir in Connecticut sang this. I still know it nearly by heart.
This hymn for Palm Sunday was originally written in French as “Les rameaux” originally published in 1864 by French art collector, operatic baritone and composer Jean-Baptiste Fauré (1830–1914).
Jean-Baptiste Fauré should not be confused with French composer, organist, pianist and teacher Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924) who composed a world-famous Requiem and other works.
An early English translation “Palm-Branches” was published by Oliver Ditson Co., Boston in “Gems of English Song” 1875. A number of other English translations have been made, and it has proved surprisingly difficult to identify the translators. One version is sometimes credited to Harrison Millard (1830-1895) – but other sources say he was simply an arranger.
I think, as a choir, we didn’t sound quite this good
Other Palm Sunday Music:
We are singing this at the Pender Contemporary Service this morning at 11:15:
We are singing this at Pender this year at the 9:00 traditional service, but without quite as much ceremony, and in English
This looks like fun – “Jerusalem, lift up your gates and sing!” Hosanna in the Highest to your King! Note that one person is playing a duet with himself.
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