Gabriel to Mary Came

Early versions of the popular medieval carol, “Gabriel to Mary Came,” can be found in at least six manuscripts dating from the late thirteenth to the mid-sixteenth century in England, France, and Ireland. The words first appeared in Latin (“Angelus ad virginem”) as well as English (“Gabriel fram evene king), with subtle differences in the melody across the sources. A precious gift from Franciscan friars, this beloved carol was brought to Britain in the 13th century. The complete poem, which recounts the angel Gabriel’s visit to the Virgin Mary, is said to have originally consisted of twenty-seven stanzas, each beginning with the consecutive letter of the alphabet. This new arrangement for SATB choir and chamber orchestra draws on both medieval and contemporary musical styles to enhance the telling of the annunciation story.