One of the songs that the Lincoln Chamber Singers performed for the Carthage Christmas Festival was my arrangement of the Dutch carol “King Jesus Hath a Garden.” As you probably know, Holland is renowned for its amazing flowers, so it’s no surprise that the most famous of all Dutch carols would reflect that country’s love of all things floral. The many and varied gifts of the Spirit are likened to various kinds of flowers – each one with its own unique and irreplaceable beauty.
As has been the tradition for the last few years, I crafted this arrangement in order to showcase three of my seniors: alto Morgan Taylor, tenor Nathan Takahashi, and soprano Sarah Jenkins as soloists. They each take a verse and then sing together as a trio.
We recorded this in early October. I am very proud of these young people for mastering this piece so quickly and thoroughly amidst the challenges of the pandemic.
King Jesus hath a garden filled with diverse flowers
where I go culling posies gay all times and hours.
There naught is heard but paradise bird, harp, dulcimer, lute
with cymbals, trumpet, tymbal, and the tender soothing flute.
The Lily white in blossom there is Chastity. The Violet with sweet perfume, Humility. R
The bonny Damask Rose is known as Patience. The blithe and thrifty Marigold, Obedience. R
The Crown Imperial bloometh too in yonder place. ‘Tis charity of stock divine, the flower of grace. R
Yet mid the brave, the bravest prize of all may claim. The Star of Bethlehem, Jesus blest be His name. R
Ah Jesu Lord, my heal and weal, my bliss complete, make thou my heart thy garden plot
fair, trim, and neat. R