John Rutter’s finest tune - a happy, upbeat setting of familiar words.
Full Title All Things Bright and Beautiful by John Rutter, b.1945
Notes This version of Mrs. Alexander’s classic hymn was made by John Rutter, who has an ear for a catchy tune in a memorable setting.
I have played this as a congregational hymn, but I don’t recommend it - it is really a choir anthem.
Duration 3 min
Performers required
- Soprano soloist accompanied by Organ or Piano
- Choir accompanied by Organ or Piano
Source of printed music published by Oxford University Press. There are versions for mixed choir, solo voice, upper voice choir, and for piano alone.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful:
The Lord God made them all.
Each little flow’r that opens,
Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colors,
He made their tiny wings.
The purple-headed mountains,
The river running by,
The sunset and the morning
That brightens up the sky.
The cold wind in the winter,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden,
He made them every one.
The tall trees in the greenwood,
The meadows where we play,
The rushes by the water,
To gather every day.
He gave us eyes to see them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well.
Music by John Rutter
Words by Mrs. C. F. Alexander
