Free Lead Sheet – Dona Nobis Pacem

Free Lead Sheet – Dona Nobis Pacem

Free Sheet Music for the traditional Dona Nobis Pacem. (Latin)


A Simple Song for Peace: "Dona Nobis Pacem"


Simple and enduring. Two words that accurately describe "Dona Nobis Pacem." "Dona Nobis Pacem" is a Latin hymn with three stanzas and two lines. One of the shorts hymns in history, this song also boasts no lyricists or composers – a trait shared with other Latin hymns.


There are many theories about its origins. Some people like to attribute it to Mozart, but most hymnals mark it as 'Traditional.' Upon closer inspection, it can be seen that it wasn't written very carefully so it might also have its origins in folk music. There is also speculation that the hymn was an original 16th or 17th century Christmas hymn that originated in Germany. Despite these theories, there is only one truth known about this hymn – it is universally loved and sung in many churches and communities.


"Dona Nobis Pacem" is a famous hymn sung during the Christmas season in services. It is also part of the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) liturgical prayer of the Roman Catholic Latin Christian Mass, Anglican Eucharist, and Lutheran Divine Service. The song is an invocation to the Lord to give mercy and peace with the help of Jesus Christ as the symbolic lamb of God. In vernacular Christian mass, the whole song is translated and sung by the congregation. The style of singing for this hymn is round or canon.


The tune for "Dona Nobis Pacem" bears the same name and has an irregular meter. The key is in D major.


The song's powerful message is a perennial call from every believer, no matter the denomination. This simple, powerful, and relevant song reminds the believers the critical gift of mercy and peace in our lives.


From history until today, "Dona Nobis Pacem" strikes a chord among believers and the most wanted gift of all: peace.

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