A new version of Gloria in Excelsis Deo
Mack Wilberg, the renowned director of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, is celebrated for his soul-stirring arrangements that breathe new life into well-known melodies.
Wilberg's work is noted for its emotional depth, musical complexity, and ability to keep listeners engaged. His arrangements are widely performed and recorded globally.
In this article, we highlight Mack Wilberg's arrangement of "Gloria in Excelsis Deo."
Wilberg’s arrangement is a grand and stirring rendition of the traditional Christmas hymn.
It incorporates elements from the traditional French carol "Les Anges dans nos Campagnes" (known in English as "Angels We Have Heard on High") and uses lyrics by James Montgomery.
Wilberg’s arrangement is known for its grandeur and exuberance, making it a popular choice for choirs during the Christmas season. It has become a signature finale at the Tabernacle Choir's annual Christmas concerts.
In this recording, the Mack Wilberg arrangement of ‘Gloria in Excelsis Deo’ is performed as a processional at the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s Christmas concert of 2005. The lyrics appear below.
Gloria in Excelsis Deo
Angels from the realms of glory,
Hear our joyful song below,
For tonight we sing the story
Heard by shepherds long ago.
Though at first they trembled, fearing,
Wond'rous tidings bid them rise;
Heav'nly hosts then bright appearing
Sang these praises in the skies:
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Peace on earth good will to men!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Hasten now to Bethlehem!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Peace on earth good will to men!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Hasten now to Bethlehem!
All good souls who've gone before us,
Hear the ancient Christmas lay;
On this night we join in chorus,
"Love came down this Holy Day!"
He awaits us in the manger
Smiling there in purest white.
Unto us He is no stranger,
But Creator, Life, and Light!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Peace on earth good will to men!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Hasten now to Bethlehem!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Peace on earth good will to men!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Hasten now to Bethlehem!
Heav'n and nature here abiding,
Hear the chimes of ages ring!
Woods and rivers shout glad tidings,
Tell the wonders of your King!
Mountains cry aloud forever,
Solid rocks weep for joy!
Sun, moon, stars all sing together!
Let this song our hearts employ:
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Peace on earth good will to men!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Hasten now to Bethlehem!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Peace on earth good will to men!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Hasten now to Bethlehem!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
Gloria in excelsis Deo!
In excelsis Deo!
Amen! Amen! Amen! Amen!
Amen! Amen! Amen! Amen!
