Ralph Morton : O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
SATB a cappella
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£35.00
The text Veni, veni, Emmanuel is based on five of the seven "Great O's of Advent'', a series of antiphons to be sung in mid-December expressing longing for the coming of Christ. The metrical version was authored anonymously, probably during the 12th century and translated by John Mason Neale during the 19th century. For all of its medieval origin, this hymn speaks tellingly to modern Christians, and in its coupling with a medieval plainsong melody is a much loved feature of congregational singing in many Advent services. Ralph Morton's new choral setting uses four of the five stanzas, and progresses from the bleak sadness of a mourning captive Israel to the exuberant excitement of the final "Rejoice". It can be used in carol services during Advent or Christmas, or as a funeral anthem and is suitable for college or church choir. A strophic setting that captures the sense of longing that can be found in the text and builds to an exciting climax. Although the piece is intended to be sung a cappella, the composer sanctions performances with judicious organ doubling of choral parts. The first two bars could be used as an organ introduction.