We have a collection of 8 arrangements for John Henry Hopkins Jr. - We Three Kings
What famous Christmas carol was originally written as a Christmas pageant for a New York seminary? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover John Henry Hopkins Jr.: Composer of 'We Three Kings'
John Henry Hopkins Jr. was an American clergyman and hymnwriter best known for his Christmas carol "We Three Kings." Here are some interesting facts about him and the carol:
Birth and Early Life: John Henry Hopkins Jr. was born on October 28, 1820, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. He came from a family of talented musicians, and his father, John Henry Hopkins Sr., was also a respected clergyman and composer.
Episcopal Bishop: Hopkins followed in his father's footsteps and became an Episcopal clergyman. He was ordained as a deacon in 1842 and later as a priest in 1872. His religious career was notable, and he served as the Bishop of Vermont from 1865 to 1887.
Education: Hopkins was well-educated and attended the University of Vermont and then the General Theological Seminary in New York City.
Hymnwriter: Hopkins is most renowned for composing the Christmas carol "We Three Kings of Orient Are." He wrote both the lyrics and the music for the carol, which was first published in 1857.
Inspiration for the Carol: "We Three Kings" was inspired by the biblical account of the Magi (wise men or kings) who traveled to Bethlehem to visit the infant Jesus after following the Star of Bethlehem. The carol reflects their journey and offerings of gifts.
Innovative Carol: At the time, "We Three Kings" was innovative because it introduced the use of unusual time signatures (5/4 and 3/4) in a Christmas carol, giving it a unique and memorable rhythm.
Recognition: Although "We Three Kings" is one of the most beloved and enduring Christmas carols, it did not gain widespread popularity during Hopkins' lifetime. However, it has since become a staple in Christmas hymnals and is performed worldwide during the holiday season.
Contributions to Hymnody: In addition to "We Three Kings," Hopkins wrote numerous other hymns and contributed significantly to American hymnody. Some of his other notable works include "Sleeper, Awake!," "O Lamb of God Most Holy," and "The Advent of Our God."
Legacy: John Henry Hopkins Jr. is remembered for his significant contributions to Christian hymnody and his role in shaping the American Episcopal Church. His carol "We Three Kings" continues to be a cherished part of Christmas traditions around the world.
Death: Hopkins passed away on August 14, 1891, in Hudson, New York. His legacy lives on through his music and his impact on the Episcopal Church in the United States.
"We Three Kings" remains a timeless and beloved Christmas carol that captures the essence of the Christmas story and the reverence of the Magi's journey to honor the newborn King.