I Saw Three Ships (SSA choir and piano) SSA - Digital Sheet Music

Chorus Choir, SSA Chorus (SSA) - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1296267

Composed by Colin Kirkpatrick. This edition: pdf, streaming. Christian, Christmas, Praise & Worship. 12 pages. Colin Kirkpatrick Publications #886511. Published by Colin Kirkpatrick Publications (A0.1296267).

This is a lively arrangement based on the traditional text but a completely new melody. It's an English Christmas carol, which dates back at least to the 17th century. The reference to "three ships" is thought to originate in the those that carried the purported relics of the Biblical magi to Cologne Cathedral in the 12th century.

The joyful main theme is in 7/8 time and divides into 2+2+3. This is easier than it sounds because much of the piece consists of four measures of 7/8 followed by a measure of 4/4. Singers will soon get to "feel" the rhythm and become familiar with this time signature. It’s scored for a fairly experienced SAA choir with keyboard accompaniment. The SAA voicing is ideal for high school or college use, where lower voices may not be available. The arrangement has really been conceived for boy-choir or girl-choir. In the reflective middle section, there are opportunities for solos, though they are optional. Audiences and singers alike are sure to enjoy this joyful music. The keyboard part is fairly straightforward though requires a competent pianist. It would be a great addition to your Christmas concert or service. (Duration: 03.00)

Voice ranges are well within normal "high school" range: Soprano 1: C4-F5; Soprano 2: A3 - D5; Alto: G3- D5. If you like this choral piece, you might also be interested in two of the other Colin Kirkpatrick Nativity Anthems in this series: And a Star is Shining in the East and Three Kings from Eastern Lands. Both titles are available from the same publisher.