We Three Kings of Orient Are: An Exploration of the Classic Christmas Carol with Banjo Tablature

"We Three Kings of Orient Are" is one of the most beloved Christmas carols of all time. With its stately melody and poignant lyrics, the song has been a staple of holiday celebrations for centuries. In this article, we will delve into the history, significance, and musicality of "We Three Kings." We will also provide a detailed banjo tablature for the song, allowing you to enjoy the timeless melody on your own.

The exact origins of "We Three Kings" are unknown, but it is believed to have emerged in the 12th or 13th century. The earliest known version of the song, titled "Tres Reges Veniunt Orientis," was a Latin hymn. The English lyrics we know today were first published in 1857 by the American clergyman John Henry Hopkins Jr.

Hopkins claimed to have found the lyrics in a manuscript from the 14th century. However, scholars have since disputed this claim, suggesting that Hopkins may have composed the lyrics himself. Regardless of its exact origin, "We Three Kings" quickly became a popular Christmas carol, both in the United States and abroad.

We Three Kings of Orient Are -Christmas Banjo Tab

by Ruthie Dean

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	240 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

FREE

"We Three Kings" is a deeply symbolic song. The three kings represent the Magi, or wise men, who visited the infant Jesus after his birth. The gifts they bring—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—have profound significance:

• Gold represents Jesus's kingship.
• Frankincense represents his divinity.
• Myrrh represents his humanity and his ultimate sacrifice.

The song's lyrics also reference the star of Bethlehem, which guided the Magi to Jesus. The star symbolizes hope, guidance, and the coming of Christ.

"We Three Kings" is written in the key of G major. The song has a stately, march-like rhythm, which gives it a sense of grandeur and solemnity. The melody is simple and memorable, with a wide range of pitches. This makes it accessible to singers of all ages and skill levels.

The banjo tablature for "We Three Kings" is provided below. The tablature is written in standard notation, with the melody played on the first string. The strumming pattern is simple and easy to follow, making this arrangement suitable for beginner banjo players.

Banjo Tablature

|-----0---0---0---0---0-------0---0------| 1|0---0---0---0---0-------0---0------| 2|--0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0----| 3|------------------------------------| 4|------------------------------------|

"We Three Kings of Orient Are" is a timeless Christmas carol that has captured the hearts of millions for generations. Its beautiful melody, meaningful symbolism, and enduring message of hope make it a true holiday classic. With the banjo tablature provided above, you can now add this beloved song to your own Christmas repertoire.

Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, I encourage you to learn to play "We Three Kings" on the banjo. As you strum the strings and sing the lyrics, you will connect with the timeless spirit of Christmas and experience the joy that this song has brought to countless others.

May the joy and peace of the Christmas season fill your heart and home.

We Three Kings of Orient Are -Christmas Banjo Tab

by Ruthie Dean

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	240 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

FREE