About the hymn tune Bangor

This tune first appeared A Compleat Melody: or the Harmony of Syon, dated 1734, and is attributed to the volume's editor, William Tans'ur (originally Tanzer). Among other volumes to his credit are The Psalm Singer's Jewel (1760), and Melodia Sacra (1771), though there is some question as to which tunes he composed and which were ones he adapted.

The text by John Mason Neale, "O very God of very God," is associated with the December 21, the winter solstice, as the prose shifts from the gray moodiness of Advent and gradually brightens with the anticipation of that new light and hope brought by the Advent of the Son of God. The text "Alone thou goest forth" was written by the gifted 12th C. wordsmith and philosopher Peter Abelard, and celebrates - in the sweep of of just four verses - the ignominy of Christ's atoning act to lofe evermore, connecting the passion and resurrection to lives lived ages since.

You may print and use the descants you find here free of charge for church services and concerts; however, be advised these are copyrighted materials and cannot be used for commercial purposes without prior written consent. Please pass on your comments and suggestions by sending me an email. Better yet - send me a recording! I’ll post it. Scores are in pdf format.

All works copyright © David Maurand, except as noted.

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