OPENING ODE

HAIL, Eternal! By whose aid,
All created things were made,
Heaven and earth Thy vast design,
Hear us, Architect Divine.

May our work begun in Thee,
Ever blest with order be,
And may we, when labours cease,
Part in harmony and peace.

By Thy glorious Majesty,
By the trust we place in Thee,
By the Badge and Sacred Sign,
Hear us, Architect Divine!

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of several versions of the Opening Ode.  (48Kb)

Click HERE for the 'University College' version as a 'midi' file.  (3Kb)
Click HERE for the 'Innocents' version as a 'midi' file.  (3Kb)
Click HERE for the 'St. Bees' version as a 'midi' file.  (3Kb)

Another Version
As sung by De Grey & Ripon Lodge 837
Province of Yorkshire, West Riding
And supplied by W. Bro. David Baxter, PPrGReg - Fairfax Lodge No. 3255, of the same Province

Almighty Father, God of Grace,
To Whom we humbly bow;
On all assembled in this place,
Thy blessing now bestow.

O may our work, begun in Thee,
Find favour in Thy sight;
And every faithful Brother be,
Perfected by Thy might.
So mote it be.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of several versions of the Opening Ode. (90Kb)

Click HERE for the version as a 'midi' file. (3Kb)

Another Version
As sung by Saedingburna Lodge No. 6728
Province of East Kent
And supplied by Keith Whitby of the same.

O Lord, how joyful 'tis to see
The brethren join in love to thee;
On Thee alone their heart relies,
There only strength. Thy grace supplies.

How sweet within Thy holy place
With one accord to sing Thy grace,
Beseeching Thine attentive ear
With all the force of fervent prayer.

Oh; May we love the house of God.
Of peace and joy the blest abode;
Oh; may no angry strife destroy
That sacred peace, that holy joy.

Lord, shower upon us from above
That sacred gift of mutual love;
Each other's wants may we supply,
And reign together in the sky.

So mote it be.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of this version. (258Kb)

Click HERE for the version as a 'midi' file. (5Kb)

DEAD MARCH IN SAUL
3^RD DEGREE GRAVE MUSIC

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of 'Dead March in Saul'. (34Kb)
Click HERE for the 'midi' file. (2Kb)

THE INSTALLATION OF
THE MASTER ELECT

Stand forth O worthy Craftsmen,
In order’s fair array,
Stand forth with strains of gladness,
To greet our festal day.

Praise we the Great Creator,
Our hearts and voices raise,
His gates with songs to enter,
And tread His courts with praise.

Here joined in holy union,
Assembling year by year,
With one accord to serve Him,
We in the Lodge appear.

So with a joyful anthem,
Our praises shall unite:
May this our humble service,
Be pleasing in His sight.

So Mote It Be.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet. (33Kb)

Click HERE to hear the 'midi' file. (3Kb)

CLOSING ODE

Now the evening shadows closing,
Warn from toil to peaceful rest,
Mystic arts and rites reposing,
Sacred in each faithful breast.

God of Light, whose love unceasing,
Doth to all Thy works extend,
Crown our Order with Thy blessing,
Build, sustain us to the end.

Humbly now we bow before Thee,
Grateful for Thy aid Divine,
Everlasting power and glory,
Mighty Architect! be Thine.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of two versions of the Closing Ode. ('Fidelity' is included with this file.)  (45Kb)

Click HERE for the 'Closing Ode' (St. Sylvester) as a 'midi' file.  (3Kb)
Click HERE for the 'Closing Ode' (St. Oswald) as a 'midi' file.  (3Kb)

Another Version
As sung by De Grey & Ripon Lodge 837
Province of Yorkshire, West Riding
And supplied by W. Bro. David Baxter, PPrGReg - Fairfax Lodge No. 3255, of the same Province

On the dewy breath of even,
Thousand odours mingling rise.
Borne like incense up to Heaven,
Nature's evening sacrifice.

With her balmy offerings blending,
Let our glad thanksgivings be;
To Thy throne, O Lord, ascending,
Incense of our hearts to Thee.
So mote it be

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of several versions of the Closing Ode. (86.7Kb)

Click HERE for the version as a 'midi' file. (3Kb)

Another Version
As sung by Saedingburna Lodge No. 6728
Province of East Kent
And supplied by Keith Whitby of the same.

In chosen Israel's favoured land,
A famous temple once did stand,
To Thee, Great Architect Divine
Was raised that vast and Holy shrine.

But thou to us hast given a part
To build a temple of the heart
In which to walk with soul erect
A monument to Thine elect.

Then strengthen our Masonic tie,
Teach us to live, teach us to die
Enrich our cause with all that's good
Cement with love our brotherhood.

And ere we close our Lodge this night
We thank Thee, God of truth and light,
In all our hearts Thy work proclaim,
And praise and bless Thy Holy name.

So mote it be.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of of this version. (295Kb)

Click HERE for the version as a 'midi' file. (5Kb)

FIDELITY

Fidelity,
Fidelity,
Fidelity,
And may God be with us all.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of 'Fidelity'. (The 'Closing Ode' is included with this file.) (45Kb)

Click HERE for 'Fidelity' as a 'midi' file. (1Kb)

ENTERED APPRENTICE’S SONG

Come, let us prepare,
We Brothers that are,
Assembled on merry Occasion;
Let’s drink, laugh and sing;
Be he beggar or King;
Here’s a health to an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
Let’s drink, laugh and sing;
Be he beggar or King;
Here’s a health to an Accepted Mason.

The world is in pain
our secrets to gain,
And still let them wonder and gaze on;
They ne’er can divine
The Word or Sign
Of a Free and an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
They ne’er can divine
The Word or Sign
Of a Free and an Accepted Mason.

’Tis this and ’tis that, They cannot tell what,
Nor why the Great Men of the Nation,
Should Aprons put on,
And make themselves one
With a Free and an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
Should Aprons put on,
And make themselves one.
With a Free and an Accepted Mason.

Great Kings Dukes and Lords
have laid by their swords,
Our Mist’ry to put a good grace on;
And ne’er been ashamed
To hear themselves named
With a Free and an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
And ne’er been ashamed
To hear themselves named
With a Free and an Accepted Mason.

Antiquity’s pride
We have on our side,
To keep up our old reputation;
There’s naught but what’s good
To be understood
By a Free and an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
There’s naught but what’s good
To be understood
By a Free and an Accepted Mason.

We’re true and sincere,
And just to the fair;
They’ll trust us on any occasion;
No mortal can more
The Ladies adore
Than a Free and an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
No mortal can more
The Ladies adore
Than a Free and an Accepted Mason.

(All standing and joining hands, right over left)
Then join hand in hand,
By each Brother firm stand;
Let’s be merry and put a bright face on!
What mortal can boast
So noble a toast
As a Free and an Accepted Mason.
Chorus: (thrice - slightly faster each time)
What mortal can boast
So noble a toast
As a Free and an Accepted Mason.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the Entered Apprentice's Song. (32Kb)

Click HERE for the "Entered Apprentice's" Song as a 'midi' file. (12Kb)

THE CRAFTMAN’S JOURNEY

Written to celebrate Leopold Mozart's passing to the Second Degree in the
Vienna Lodge 'Zur wahren Eintract' (To Preserving Harmony)

Lyrics by Bro Josef Franz von Ratschky (1757-1810)
Music by Bro Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)
Translation by W. Bro Bill Young, PPrSGW, Vale of Nene Lodge No 7006, and founder Member of Pro Musica Lodge No 9547. Both are in the Province of Northants & Hunts.

Version 1

Now a new Degree you enter
Grasp this knowledge while you may.
Travel firm down your path's centre,
Knowing wisdom lies that way.
He who strives and never tires
To the light of truth aspires
Chorus:
He who strives and never tires
To the light of truth aspires

Pilgrim, keep your escort extant,
With your brothers' blessing wrought!
Caution at your side be constant,
Steps made light with knowledge sought.
Never to delusion turn;
Be aware and ignorance spurn!
Chorus:
Never to delusion turn.
Be aware and ignorance spurn!

Truly harsh the journey thro' life;
But how sweet also the prize
that assuages weary trav'ler's strife,
When the glorious goal greets his eyes!
You have fortune on you bestowed;
It is light on your road.
Chorus:
You have fortune on you bestowed;
It is light on your road.

Here is a further translation by Emily Ezust

Version 2

A higher state of knowledge
You are now approaching,
Wandering firmly on your path,
Knowing that it is the path of wisdom.
Only the serene man
May approach the source of light.

Take, o Pilgrim, as an escort
Your brother's blessing.
Let caution be always on your side,
And curiosity guide your steps!
Constantly test yourself and never become
Dependent on the insanity of lazy blindness.

The journey of life is certainly rough,
But sweet is also its reward,
Which wanderers do await, wisely knowing
That their journey will increase it.
Happy is he who can say:
There is light in my life's road!

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet for Bill Young's version of The Craftman's Journey. (271Kb)

Click HERE for version 1 of "The Craftman's Journey as a 'midi' file provided by Bill Young. (12Kb)

GENERAL TOAST

Prosper the art, prosper the art,
Join in the chorus, prosper the art.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the Song. (35Kb)

Click HERE for 'Prosper The Art' as a 'midi' file. (1Kb)

PERSONAL TOAST

Join all in Harmony,
Join all in Harmony,
Join all in Harmony,
Prosper the Art.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the Song. (35Kb)

Click HERE for 'Join all in Harmony' as a 'midi' file. (1Kb)

VISITOR'S TOAST

Worthy Freemasons all,
Worthy Freemasons all,
The Queen and the Craft, the mystic tie,
Worthy Freemasons all.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and two versions of the Score Sheet (one being provided by Christo Christov) of the Song.  (41Kb)

Click HERE for 'Worthy Freemasons All' version 1 as a 'midi' file.  (1Kb)
Click HERE for 'Worthy Freemasons All' version 2 as a 'midi' file.  (1Kb)

VISITOR'S SONG

Brethren from the East and West,
Who have stood the Tyler's Test,
You will find a welcome here,
Bright, fraternal and sincere.
Chorus:
Warm Masonic hearts to meet you,
Hands of fellowship to greet you,
May our welcome here today,
Cheer each Brother on his way.

We salute the man of worth,
Whether high or low his birth,
What so ever be his lot,
Rich or poor, it matters not.
Chorus:
Warm Masonic hearts to meet you,
Hands of fellowship to greet you,
May our welcome here today,
Cheer each Brother on his way.

And when we have said adieu,
May our love remain with you,
And may we renew that love
In a Grander Lodge above.
Chorus:
Warm Masonic hearts to meet you,
Hands of fellowship to greet you,
May our welcome here today,
Cheer each Brother on his way.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet. (70Kb)

Click HERE for the "Visitor's Song" as a 'midi' file using String Ensemble and Accoustic Grand Piano. Click HERE to be played by a Piano. (6Kb)

NAUTILUS VISITOR'S SONG

This is sung after the toast to the Visitors and prior to the response by him/them and used in lieu of the more traditional "Visitor's Song."

As far as it is known this song is unique to Nautilus in Masonic terms.

The tune is the 'Eton Boat Song.' Nautilus' sing this acapello as until now our organist did not have a copy, but he will for the next meeting!

As used by Nautilus Lodge No. 4259 and provided by Bro. John McDonald, SD of that Lodge (May 2007)

Welcome, Welcome, Welcome,
We greet you with a song,
Welcome, Welcome, Welcome,
We're glad you came along,
Please accept our invitation,
To visit us once again,
And rest assured our welcome,
Will always be the same.

Welcome, Welcome, Welcome,
Come join hands with me,
All pals together,
One in harmony,
May you have a lovely evening,
And join us in all the fun,
And when comes the time of parting,
We hope some news friends you've won.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet. (320Kb)

Click HERE for the "Nautilus Visitor's Song" as a 'midi' file. (3Kb)

MASTER’S SONG

This world is so hard and so stony;
That if a man is to get through,
He need have the courage of Nelson,
And plenty of Job’s patience too.
But a man who is kind to another
And cheerfully helps him along,
God Bless such a man and a Brother,
And here’s to his health in a song.

And here’s to his health,
here’s to his health
And here’s to his health in a song.
Chorus: (All stand)
And here’s to his health,
here’s to his health
And here’s to his health in a song.

This life is as cheerless as Winter,
To those who are cold in the heart;
but a man who is warm in his nature,
Bids Winter for ever depart,
The ground that he treads on will blossom,
’Till beauties around him shall throng;
God Bless such a man and a Brother,
And here’s to his health in a song.

And here’s to his health;
here’s to his health
And here’s to his health in a song.
Chorus: (All stand)
And here’s to his health,
here’s to his health
And here’s to his health in a song.

As clouds that in sunshine are open,
And silver’d by light passing through;
So men who are gen’rous in spirit,
Are bless’d by the good deeds they do;
There’s nothing like helping another
For getting one’s own self along;
Who does this is truly a Brother.
And here’s to his health in a song.

And here’s to his health;
here’s to his health
And here’s to his health in a song.
Chorus: (All stand)
And here’s to his health,
here’s to his health
And here’s to his health in a song.
Repeated
And here’s to his health,
here’s to his health
And here’s to his health in a song.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the Master's Song for our Province.  (127Kb)
Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the Master's Song to a different tune.  (239Kb)

Click HERE to listen to the music as a 'midi' file.  (19Kb)

Click HERE to listen to a different version of the Master's Tune.  (17Kb)
Click HERE to download the zipped 'midi' file.  (2Kb)

MASTER’S SONG

This Version supplied by W. Bro. Bill Young of The Provincial Male Voice Choir of Northants & Hunts and printed with their permission

Right worshipful Master and worshipful Wardens
Dear kind worthy Brethren, true secrecy's guardians
The friendship, the honour, so kindly conferred
With gratitude, thanks, and respect I regard
Then kindly permit me the toast to return
From a heart that for ever with friendship shall burn
To all worthy Brethren of every degree
Craving aid with the honours
And by three times three
Craving aid with the honours
And by three times three

Chorus:
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah

Repeat Chorus:
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah
Hurrah - hurrah - hurrah

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of this Version of the Master's Song. (184Kb)

Click HERE to listen to the music as a 'midi' file. (7Kb)

ABSENT BRETHREN

Version 1

Holy Father, in Thy mercy,
Hear our anxious prayer:
Keep our loved ones, now far distant,
'Neath Thy care.

When in sorrow, when in danger,
When in loneliness,
In Thy love look down and comfort
Their distress.

Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
God the One in Three,
Bless them, guide them, save them, keep them,
Near to thee

So Mote It Be

Version 2

Holy Father, in Thy mercy,
Hear our anxious prayer:
Keep our loved ones, now far absent,
'Neath Thy care.

When in sorrow, when in danger,
When in loneliness,
In thy love look down and comfort
Their distress.

Father, in Thy love and power,
Architect Divine,
Bless them, guide them, save them, keep them,
They are Thine.

So Mote It Be

Version 3

Architect for Thy protection
Now we humbly pray:
Guard and comfort all our Brethren
Far away.

Grant that we in true remembrance
May not be remiss;
Let them know that in this hour 'tis
Them we miss.

If their absence be through wand'ring
Or through grief or pain,
Bless them, heal them, bring them to us
Safe again.

So Mote It Be

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the above Songs. (45Kb)

Click HERE for the above Songs as a 'midi' file. (1Kb)

Version 4
As sung by Nautilus Lodge No. 4259
Province of Durham
And supplied by Bro. John McDonald, Senior Deacon & Charity Steward

Eternal Father strong to save,
Whose arms hath bound the restless waves,
Who bids the mighty oceans deep,
Its own appointed limits keep,
O' Hear us when we cry to thee,
For those in peril on the sea.

Oh Trinity of love and power,
Our Brethren shield in dangers hour,
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them where're they go,
Thus evermore shall rise to thee,
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

So Mote It Be

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the above Song. (58Kb)

Click HERE for the above Song as a 'midi' file. (4Kb)

THE TYLER’S SONG

Provided by W. Bro Bill Young, PPrSGW, Vale of Nene Lodge No 7006, and founder Member of Pro Musica Lodge No 9547. Both are in the Province of Northants & Hunts.

"Are your glasses charged in the West and South?"
The Worshipful Master cries.
"They're charged in the West!" "They're charged in the South!"
Are the Wardens' prompt replies.
"Then to our final Toast tonight your glasses fairly drain."
Chorus:
Happy to meet - sorry to part - happy to meet again.
Happy to meet again, happy to meet again,
Happy to meet - sorry to part - happy to meet again.

Amidst our mirth we drink to all our Brethren o'er the world
In ev'ry clime our flag of love is gloriously unfurl'd.
We prize each Brother, dark or fair, who bears no moral stain.
Chorus:
Happy to meet - sorry to part - happy to meet again.
Happy to meet again, happy to meet again,
Happy to meet - sorry to part - happy to meet again.

To Brethren of the mystic art, the night is waning fast;
our feast is o'er, our Duty's done,
this song must be our last.
Goodnight, goodnight, once more, once more.
repeat the farewell strain:
Chorus:
Happy to meet - sorry to part - happy to meet again.
Happy to meet again, happy to meet again,
Happy to meet - sorry to part - happy to meet again.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet for the Tyler's Song. (193Kb)

Click HERE for the Tyler's Song a 'midi' file provided by Bill Young. (4Kb)

IN THE GRAND LODGE ABOVE
(The Tyler's Toast)

In the Grand Lodge above,
In the Grand Lodge above
May we allo be together
In the Grand Lodge above.

In the Grand Lodge above,
In the Grand Lodge above
May we allo be together
In the Grand Lodge above.

In the Grand Lodge above,
In the Grand Lodge above
May we allo be together
In the Grand Lodge above.

Happy have met,
Happy have we been,
Happy may we part,
Happy meet again,
So mote it be,
So mote it be.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of 'In The Grand Lodge Above (Tyler's Toast).  (112Kb)

Click HERE for the 'In The Grand Lodge Above' (Version 1) as a 'midi' file.  (1Kb)
Click HERE for the 'In The Grand Lodge Above' (Version 2) as a 'midi' file.  (1Kb)
Click HERE for the 'Happy Have We Met' (Version 2) as a 'midi' file.  (1Kb)

IN THE GRAND LODGE ABOVE
(The Tyler's Toast - Canadian Version)
Supplied by W. Bro Roger Strange
Past Grand Organist Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon

In the Grand Lodge above,
In the Grand Lodge above
May we allo be together
In the Grand Lodge above.

In the Grand Lodge above,
In the Grand Lodge above
May we allo be together
In the Grand Lodge above.

The first 2 lines are sung very quietly on the second verse, and the last two lines loud

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of 'In The Grand Lodge Above (Tyler's Toast - Canadian Version). (41Kb)

Click HERE for the 'In The Grand Lodge Above' (Canadian Version) as a 'midi' file. (1Kb)

LADIES’S SONG

By popular demand!

Version One

Tonight we are met to do Honour,
To those who in sickness and health,
Are Angels who minister to us,
The Ladies our Empires wealth,
To Mothers, Wives, Sisters and Sweethearts,
True Masons can never do wrong,
We all love the Ladies, God bless them,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.

The Brethren all bid you a welcome,
The night is only for you,
We thank you for all you do for us,
May we always be faithful and true,
The Brethren a Toast to our Ladies,
For our joy in having you here,
We wish you good health and much pleasure,
And happiness all through the year.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.

To the wife of our Worshipful Master,
Our dutiful homage we pay,
May her joys be as wide as the ocean,
Her sorrows as light as its spray,
The ground that she treads on shall blossom,
Till blessings around her shall throng,
Long life to the Lady we honour,
And here's to her health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to her health, here's to her health,
And here's to her health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to her health, here's to her health,
And here's to her health in a song.

In our Province this is sung to the "Master's Song" music.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Ladies Song words and Score Sheet. (196Kb)

Version Two

When life is sad and dreary,
And heavy with dull care,
And a Brother is full laden,
With troubles hard to bear,
'Tis then he looks for comfort,
And solace in the strife,
From the lady whom he worships,
His mother, sweetheart, wife.

Chorus - Solo
Then here's to the Ladies!
Our mothers, sweethearts, wives;
They drive our cares and toils away,
Bring sunshine to our lives;
Then drink to the Ladies!
God bless them everyone;
Here's health and happiness to all.
The Ladies! The Ladies! The Ladies!

Chorus (as above) - All gentlemen (standing)

How happy is the Brother,
And bless'd with wealth untold
Whose lady is a treasure,
And worth her weight in gold;
Who travels on life's journey
And weathers storm and tide
Who meets life's joys and sorrows
With his loved one by his side.

Chorus (as per 1^st verse) - Solo

Chorus (as per 1^st verse) - All gentlemen (standing)

So Brothers, guard them dearly;
Let nothing come amiss;
Console them in their sorrows,
Join them in their bliss
Make happiness their portion,
And drive out grief and tears;
With loving care support them,
Right down throughout the years.

Chorus (as per 1^st verse) - Solo

Chorus (as per 1^st verse) - All gentlemen (standing)

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Ladies Song words. (205Kb)

Click HERE to listen to the music as a 'midi' file. (6Kb)

Version Three

Ladies from the East and West,
We have done our very best,
To ensure you welcome here,
Bright, fraternal, and sincere.

Chorus
Warm Masonic hearts to meet you,
Hands of fellowship to greet you,
May our welcome here today,
Help to cheer you on your way.

We all recognise your worth,
Our best friends upon this earth,
For whatever be our lot,
Rich or poor it matters not.

Chorus
Warm Masonic hearts to meet you,
Hands of fellowship to greet you,
May our welcome here today,
Help to cheer you on your way.

When on earth we say adieu,
May our love remain with you,
And may we renew that love,
In a Grander Lodge above.

Chorus
Warm Masonic hearts to meet you,
Hands of fellowship to greet you,
May our welcome here today,
Help to cheer you on your way.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Ladies Song words. (205Kb)

Click HERE to listen to the music as a 'midi' file. (6Kb)

Version Four

Sung by Gravesham Lodge No 5337, Gravesend, Kent
Kindly provided by W. Bro Nolly Harvey, PPrSGD
Windmill Lodge No. 8683, Gravesend, Kent
This World is so hard and stony,
That if a man is to get through,
He need have the help and comfort,
Of someone who's steadfast and true,
So tonight we remember our Ladies,
Without them we would never get along,
So Brethren lets sing to our Ladies,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.

This life is as cheerless as winter,
To those who are cold in the heart,
But the man who is blessed in his partner,
Bids winter forever depart,
She tends him in health and in sickness,
Surrounds him with love great and strong,
So Brethren once more to your glasses,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.

To our Worshipful Masters good Lady,
Our dutiful homage we pay,
May her joys be as widespread as the Ocean,
Her sorrows as light as the spray,
Life's path will be as fragrant as blossoms,
And beauties around her shall throng,
It's the toast to the Ladies we honour,
And here's to her health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to her health, here's to her health,
And here's to her health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to her health, here's to her health,
And here's to her health in a song.

This is sung to the "Master's Song" music.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Ladies Song (Version 4) words and Score Sheet. (194Kb)

Version Five

Sung by Windmill Lodge No 8683, Gravesend, Kent
Kindly provided by W. Bro Nolly Harvey, PPrSGD
Windmill Lodge No. 8683, Gravesend, Kent
Tonight we met to do honour,
To the Ladies all Masons adore,
We pledge them all joy and contentment,
And freedom from care evermore.
To Mothers, Wives, Sisters and Sweethearts,
True Masons will never do wrong,
We all love, the Ladies god bless them,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.

This World would be lonely without them,
The Ladies whom we all adore,
Their loyalty, love and devotion,
We Masons could ask nothing more.
Just make up your minds just to please them,
May memories of this evening, be long,
So raise all your glasses, and toast them,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to their health, here's to their health,
And here's to their health in a song.

To the Wife of our Worshipful Master,
Our dutiful homage we pay,
May her joys, be as wide as the Ocean,
Her sorrows as light as the spray.
For years she has cared for our Master,
And cheerfully helped him along,
So good luck to the Lady we honour,
And here's to her health in a song.
Chorus - Solo
Here's to her health, here's to her health,
And here's to her health in a song.
Chorus - All gentlemen (standing)
Here's to her health, here's to her health,
And here's to her health in a song.

This is sung to the "Master's Song" music.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Ladies Song (Version 5) words and Score Sheet. (194Kb)

THE ROSES SONG
aka
THE FLOWER SONG
aka
ROSES FOR YOU
Words by: Ed Teschemacher - Music by: Frederich Drummond

Version One

This version is performed in the Derbyshire Province and is sung to the Master's wife prior to then singing version three of the Ladies Song (above) at a Ladies Night.

See I have brought you a gift of sweet roses (flowers),
Tender and fair and all gleaming with dew.
Take them and keep them these flowers of the Summer,
These shall be beautiful roses (flowers) for you.

Life be for you but a garden of sunshine
Clouds never darken, your skies all be blue.
God give you happiness, love and his blessing
Beautiful, wonderful roses (flowers) for you.

Beautiful roses (flowers) for you.

Version Two

This Version is sung in the Province of Nottinghamshire
Submitted by W. Bro. Stephen A. Stagg, Clumber Lodge No.8199 in the Province of Nottinghamshire

See, I have brought you a gift of sweet blossoms,
Tender and fair and all gleaming with dew,
Take them and keep them, these flowers of the Summer,
Wonderful, beautiful roses for you!

Dear gracious lady these flowers I bring you,
Token of hearts that are warm and sincere,
Take them and keep them, these flowers of the Summer,
Wonderful, beautiful roses for you!

Life be for you but a garden of sunshine,
Clouds never darken, your skies all be blue,
God give you happiness, love and his blessing,
These shall be beautiful roses for you!

Beau - ti – ful ro – o – ses for you.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of The Roses Song (Version 1).  (187Kb)
Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of The Roses Song (Version 2).  (142Kb)

Click HERE for two verses of The Roses Song as a 'midi' file.  (5Kb)

THE MERRY MASONS
(aka 'The Devonshire Waltz)

I was asked in 2006 to source the music for 'The Merry Masons' (aka The Devonshire Waltz) for a Masonic Annual Ball in Scotland. I can only presume, that, having looked at other pages on the Internet, this music is used for Processions by the Scottish Masons.

I was unable to locate the Score Sheet (or words - if any exist) but did come across a midi file which I have 'played' with and extended the play time to 3 minutes 12 seconds (as per the original request).

I say 'play,' because I downloaded a free program which allowed me to change and/or add several instruments. I didn't go past mixing two instruments but I did do several versions which are included below - I apologise unreservedly in advance if you don't like it!

Click HERE for the Piano (solo)  (4Kb)
Click HERE for the Church Organ (solo)  (4Kb)
Click HERE for the Violin (accompanied)  (6Kb)
Click HERE for the Harmonica (accompanied)  (6Kb)
Click HERE for the Tubular Bells (accompanied)  (6Kb)
Click HERE for the Trumpet (accompanied)  (6Kb)

BROTHER MASONS
(sung by Frank Williams)

This a song that was produced by Frank Wiliams, an American singer in 1906.

I am not sure of some of the words and if you think you know what they are please don't hesitate to contact the webmaster.

The mp3 file was provided by kind permission of the University of California, Santa Barbara, who hold the copyright. The original was recorded on a two-minute brown wax and XP cylinder record of the Columbia Phonograph Company in 1906

King Solomon was Ruler of the wisest of the Nations
He founded that great Brotherhood we know as the Freemasons
All Masons are as Brothers, rich or poor they're all akin
Unless a man is tried and true he cannot enter in
In sickness or in trouble they are bound to help each other
No matter where a Mason goes, he'll always find a Brother
George Washington was proud to be a Mason good and true
And Roosevelt is a Mason, and a mighty good one too

All Brother Masons, Brothers kind and true
When you're in trouble they will stand by you
Across the sea where e'er you be you're in your native land
Wherever there's a Mason you will find a helping hand.

Lodge Number 3 of Kankakee¹ made Hiram Brown a Mason
They had a herd of billy goats at his Initiation
When Hiram Brown came in the room the goats began to sniff
Then they all butted in and let poor Hiram have a biff²
They kicked poor Hiram all around they knew he had no gumption
Then threw iced water on him till he thought he'd get consumption
When Hiram said he'd catch a cold they said "None of your lip
You cannot be a Mason, boy, unless you have the grippe³. "

All Brother Masons, Brothers kind and true
When you're in trouble they will stand by you
Poor Hiram's Third Degree was worse than all the other two
But he's a Blue Lodge Mason for they beat him black and blue.

And for those of us on the UK side of the 'pond,' here is a quick explanation to some of the above.

1.    Kankakee - is a real city in Illinois.
2.    Then they all butted in and let poor Hiram have a biff - This is a Masonically obvious pun, (Hiram Abiff) basically saying that the billy goats 'head butted' Hiram.
3.    You cannot be a Mason, boy, unless you have the grippe. - This is a less obvious Masonic pun and play on the word, 'grippe.' Poor Hiram is afraid he'll catch cold, sometimes flu was called 'la grippe.'

As an aside, for those of us who are not too hot on American history, there is the mention of two prominent American Masons - Theodore Roosevelt (26th US President, 1901 - 1909) who was President at the time this song was produced and of George Washington (1st US President, 1789 - 1797).

A big thank you to Allan Ramsay (Lewis Lodge No. 872) for sending me the file and information and a bigger thank you to James Fulford who emailed the website (in response to 'a call for help') and kindly clarified the above points of note.

Click HERE to listen to the music as an 'mp3' file. (2080Kb)
Click HERE to download the zipped 'mp3' file. (1990Kb)

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM

God save our gracious Queen,
Long live our noble Queen,
God save our Queen.
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us:
God save the Queen.

O Lord our God, arise,
Scatter our enemies,
And make them fall;
Confound their politics,
Frustrate their knavish tricks;
On thee our hopes we fix:
God save us all.

Thy choicest gifts in store
On her be pleased to pour,
Long may she reign.
May she defend our laws,
And ever give us cause
To sing with heart and voice,
God save the Queen.

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the 'National Anthem'. (35Kb)

Click HERE for the "National Anthem" as a 'midi' file. (1.93Kb)

SUN, SQUARE & COMPASSES SONG

If you ever come to Whitehaven on a Monday
And if SSC are meeting on that day
We'll be glad to have you with us for the evening
Especially if you come from far away

You'll be welcomed at our ritual in the Lodge
And welcome also at our Festive Board
The company we're sure you'll find is pleasing
And the wits are sharper than the Tyler's sword

Our Master is happy as a sand boy
For years we've asked but all to no avail
But now we have attained our life's ambition
Because he's bought us all a pint of ale

As Stewards one and all we are the greatest
When calling for a drink you're always heard
And notice how each evening by the last toast
Your own speech is quite noticeably slurred

But time is short and now we must leave you
Enjoy yourselves and sing out merrily
Remember that if ever down in Whitehaven
We'll be more than pleased to welcome your return

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet. (89Kb)

Click HERE for 'Galway Bay' as a 'midi' file. (5Kb)

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
And a Happy New Year.
Chorus
Good tidings we bring
To you and your kin;
We wish you a Merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

Now bring us some figgy pudding,
Now bring us some figgy pudding,
Now bring us some figgy pudding,
And bring some out here.
Chorus
Good tidings we bring
To you and your kin;
We wish you a Merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

For we all like figgy pudding,
For we all like figgy pudding,
For we all like figgy pudding,
So bring some out here.
Chorus
Good tidings we bring
To you and your kin;
We wish you a Merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

And we won't go until we get some,
And we won't go until we get some,
And we won't go until we get some,
So bring some out here.
Chorus
Good tidings we bring
To you and your kin;
We wish you a Merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of the 'We Wish You A Merry Christmas'. (265Kb)

Click HERE for "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" as a 'midi' file. (4.9Kb)

AULD LANG SYNE (All Verses!)

The song Auld Lang Syne is traditionally mumbled at midnight on New Year's Eve or at the end of a Ladies Night. This time, impress your friends and family by knowing all the words and all the verses!

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne!

CHORUS:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne!

And surely ye'll be your pint-stowp,
And surely I'll be mine,
And we'll tak a cup o kindness yet,
For auld lang syne!
CHORUS

We twa hae run about the braes,
And pou'd the gowans fine;
But we've wander'd mony a weary fit,
Sin' auld lang syne.
CHORUS

We twa hae paidl'd in the burn,
Frae morning sun till dine,
But seas between us braid hae roar'd,
Sin auld lang syne.
CHORUS

And there's a hand my trusty fere,
And gie's a hand o thine!
And we'll tak a right gude-willie waught,
For auld lang syne.
CHORUS

In case anyone is wondering:
auld lang syne - times gone by
be - pay for
pint-stowp - pint tankard
twa - two
braes - hills
pou'd - pulled
gowans - daisies
mony - many
fit - foot
paidl't - paddled
burn - stream
morning sun - noon
dine - dinner time
braid - broad
fere - friend
gude-willie waught - goodwill drink

Click HERE for an Adobe Portable Document of the Words and Score Sheet of 'Auld Lang Syne'. (38Kb)

Click HERE for "Auld Lang Syne" as a 'midi' file. (14.9Kb)

OPENING ODE

DEAD MARCH IN SAUL 3RD DEGREE GRAVE MUSIC

THE INSTALLATION OF THE MASTER ELECT

CLOSING ODE

FIDELITY

ENTERED APPRENTICE’S SONG

THE CRAFTMAN’S JOURNEY

GENERAL TOAST

PERSONAL TOAST

VISITOR'S TOAST

VISITOR'S SONG

NAUTILUS VISITOR'S SONG

MASTER’S SONG

MASTER’S SONG

ABSENT BRETHREN

THE TYLER’S SONG

IN THE GRAND LODGE ABOVE (The Tyler's Toast)

IN THE GRAND LODGE ABOVE (The Tyler's Toast - Canadian Version)Supplied by W. Bro Roger StrangePast Grand Organist Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon

LADIES’S SONG

Version One

Version Two

Version Three

Version Four

Version Five

THE ROSES SONGakaTHE FLOWER SONGakaROSES FOR YOU Words by: Ed Teschemacher - Music by: Frederich Drummond

Version One

Version Two

THE MERRY MASONS (aka 'The Devonshire Waltz)

BROTHER MASONS (sung by Frank Williams)

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM

SUN, SQUARE & COMPASSES SONG

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

AULD LANG SYNE (All Verses!)

DEAD MARCH IN SAUL
3^RD DEGREE GRAVE MUSIC

THE INSTALLATION OF
THE MASTER ELECT

IN THE GRAND LODGE ABOVE
(The Tyler's Toast)

IN THE GRAND LODGE ABOVE
(The Tyler's Toast - Canadian Version)
Supplied by W. Bro Roger Strange
Past Grand Organist Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon

THE ROSES SONG
aka
THE FLOWER SONG
aka
ROSES FOR YOU
Words by: Ed Teschemacher - Music by: Frederich Drummond

THE MERRY MASONS
(aka 'The Devonshire Waltz)

BROTHER MASONS
(sung by Frank Williams)