Yesterday I posted a slightly simpler version of this wonderful Christmas carol, The March of the Three Kings, for SATB carolers (you can read more about this carol there). This version of The March of the Three Kings is identical, except for having an alternate 2nd verse, so that the carol is sung in an ABA form. This could still be sung by a seasoned group of carolers (who practice ahead of time), but also is appropriate for an acappella choir (who would shun the thought of singing all three verses the same each time). Again I offer two different keys:

• The March of the Three Kings, version 2 (e minor) : free sheet music PDF
• The March of the Three Kings, version 2 (g minor) : free sheet music PDF
• The March of the Three Kings, version 2 (e minor) : midi realization MP3
• The March of the Three Kings, version 2 (g minor) : midi realization MP3

Other versions of this carol:

• The March of the Three Kings : simpler SATB version
• The March of the Three Kings : for Brass Band and Choir (optional)

I hope you enjoy one of my all-time favorite carols. Ex amore victoria!

Words:

The March of the Three Kings
by M Ryan Taylor
Copyright © 2004 M Ryan Taylor
based loosely on “La Marche des Rois Mages”
sung to the traditional tune

Dawn breaks forth, arising in the east.
A mighty host of heros marches hither.
Dawn breaks forth, they come from out the east,
their armor glinting with the rising sun.
A page boys leads with his trumpet bold,
he sounds a note and my heart is filled with wonder.
“What brings this fierce host to Bethlehem?”
“We seek the Savior of the race of men!”

“Three great kings have led us by that star
you see it brightly though the sun has risen!
Three great kings have led us by that star,
come join our ranks and see this holy child!”
The host moves on bearing chests of gold.
I see the kings with a body guard of paladins.
My heart cries out, “You must go with them,
and find the Savior of the race of men!”

Street by street we pass each rich abode
and each new door holds hope and expectation.
Street by street and looking to the star
we come at last to where its light shines down.
The Son of God lays upon the hay.
The Son of God laid within a lowly stable.
Three kings bow low, here in Bethlehem,
before the Savior of the race of men!