Birthday Ode for Queen Anne

I had to interupt my history lesson on Queen Anne because I was told by the leader of Annapolis Royal's A Royal Consort, Caroline Bosley, that "I" (or should that be "We") have an Ode - a Birthday Ode written by Handel. I was so excited! So Caroline told me where to find it online and you can read the lyrics below to "our" Ode. We believe that on May 16, 2010, this Ode will be performed in Annapolis Royal along with The Annapolis Royal Suite. A Royal Consort and the Annapolis Basin Community Band will hold a joint concert. Details later in this blog as things are nailed down.

So take a deep breath and read away. I'll be interested to hear comments.

Birthday Ode for Queen Anne
Composer: George Frideric Handel
Lyricist: Ambrose Philips
Published: 1713

Eternal source of light divine
with double warmth thy beams display,
and with distinguish'd glory shine,
to add a lustre to this day.
The day that gave great Anna birth
who fix'd a lasting peace on earth.

Let all the winged race with joy
their wonted homage sweetly pay,
whilst tow'ring in the azure sky
they celebrate this happy day:
The day that gave great Anna birth
who fix'd a lasting peace on earth.

Let flocks and herds their fear forget
lions and wolves refuse their prey
and all in friendly consort meet,
made glad by this propitious day.
The day that gave great Anna birth
who fix'd a lasting peace on earth.

Let rolling streams their gladness show
with gentle murmurs whilst they play,
and in their wild meanders flow,
rejoicing in this blessed day.
The day that gave great Anna birth
who fix'd a lasting peace on earth.

Kind health descends on downy wings;
angels conduct her on the way.
T'our glorious Queen new life she brings,
and swells our joys upon this day.
The day that gave great Anna birth
who fix'd a lasting peace on earth.

Let envy then conceal her head,
and blasted faction glide away.
No more her hissing tongues we'll dread,
secure in this auspicious day.
The day that gave great Anna birth
who fix'd a lasting peace on earth.

United nations shall combine,
to distant climes the sound convey
that Anna's actions are divine,
and this the most important day!
The day that gave great Anna birth
who fix'd a lasting peace on earth.