Once in Royal David’s City

Henry Gauntlett/arr. Philip Sparke

Once in Royal David’s City This carol is believed to have first been published in the early nineteenth century. The words written by Mrs. C.F. Alexander (1818–1895), wife of the Bishop of Derry, paint a picture of the events of the nativity. Mrs. Alexander wrote many poems for children, chiefly on religious subjects. The music was written by Henry John Gauntlett (1805–1876), an English organist and songwriter. Gauntlett became the organist in Buckinghamshire where his father was then curate, at the age of nine. He pursued a career in law until he was almost forty years old, when he abandoned the profession and devoted himself to music.

Last updated on December 28, 2016 by Palatine Concert Band