LOOK: Nativity relief sculpture from Chartres Cathedral
LISTEN: “A Cradle in Bethlehem” by Alfred Bryan (words) and Larry Stock (music), 1952 | Performed by Gregory Porter and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, on Big Band Holidays, 2015
Watch the live performance on the Blue Engine Records Facebook page.
Sing sweet and low a lullaby till angels say, “Amen”
A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem
While wise men follow through the dark a star that beckons them
A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in BethlehemA little child will lead them, the prophets said of old
In storm and tempest heed him until the bell is tolled
Sing sweet and low your lullaby till angels say, “Amen”
A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in BethlehemA mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem
A mother tonight is rocking her baby in Bethlehem
This song was popularized by Nat King Cole on his 1960 album, The Magic of Christmas. In addition to the live recording above featuring singer-songwriter Gregory Porter and legendary jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, here are two other recordings I like:
>> By the Lower Lights, feat. Debra Fotheringham, on Sing Noel (2013):
>> By Son of Cloud (Jonathan Seale), on Glad Tidings, vol. 1, by Mason Jar Music (2019):
Art & Theology 
Thank you for today’s image and music. Is it correct to assume that the damaged figure on the right is St. Joseph and that he appears to be covering Mary with a blanket!
All of the advent and now Christmas posts have been tremendous – thoughtful, inspiring, and prayerful.
Thank you!
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Yes, that’s what I’m guessing! I love that it shows him actively caring for his wife and child.
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[…] This performance appears on the orchestra’s live album Big Band Holidays (2015) [previously]. […]
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