I Saw Three Ships

England

HISTORY AND SONG NOTES

I Saw Three Ships is a traditional Christmas carol, originating from England in the 17th century. One of the first known versions appeared in print in 1833, in an anthology of collected carols by William Sandys.

Additional Verses:

And all the bells on Earth shall ring, on Christmas Day, on Christmas Day

And all the bells on Earth shall ring, on Christmas Day in the morning

And all the souls on Earth shall sing, on Christmas Day, on Christmas Day

And all the souls on Earth shall sing, on Christmas Day in the morning

Singing and Instrument playing

With its joyful mood, a meter that lends itself to rocking or swaying, and an uptempo beat, this tune works well as both a group singing or instrument playing activity for young children. The children may enjoy singing, or hearing you sing, the song while they play instruments as a group. Shakers and bells work particularly well with this song, enabling the children to play along with the beat and feel the meter. Click here to read more about group singing or instrument playing.

AUDIO RECORDING with words FOR LISTENING, SINGING ALONG, AND LEARNING: 

Downloads:

PDF of Score: I Saw Three Ships