We have a collection of 9 arrangements for John Henry Hopkins Jr. - We Three Kings
What Victorian-era circumstances inspired the creation of this enduring Christmas carol? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover John Henry Hopkins Jr.: Composer of 'We Three Kings'
"We Three Kings" is a Christmas carol written by John Henry Hopkins Jr. in 1857. Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:
Composer and Author: John Henry Hopkins Jr. was an American clergyman, composer, and hymnodist born in 1820. He wrote both the lyrics and music for "We Three Kings."
Episcopal Bishop: Hopkins served as the Episcopal Bishop of Vermont. Despite his religious role, he is best remembered for his contributions to hymnody.
Original Purpose: "We Three Kings" was initially written for a Christmas pageant at General Theological Seminary in New York City, where Hopkins was an instructor. The carol was part of a larger Christmas musical piece called "Three Kings of Orient."
Melody and Structure: The carol features a distinctive melody and a minor key, giving it a somewhat mysterious and exotic feel. The lyrics tell the story of the journey of the Magi, or the three wise men, to visit the newborn Jesus.
Longevity: Despite being written over 160 years ago, "We Three Kings" remains a popular and widely performed Christmas carol. It has been recorded by numerous artists and is a staple in many Christmas music collections.
Versatile Arrangements: The song has been interpreted and arranged in various musical styles, including classical, jazz, and contemporary. This versatility has contributed to its enduring appeal.
Legacy: John Henry Hopkins Jr.'s legacy extends beyond "We Three Kings." He also contributed to hymnody with other compositions and writings, but this particular carol remains his most well-known work.