Page 83 - UYMP Anthems for Sopranos, Altos and Unison Males Singers

Notes on the anthems
Stef Conner: Beneath they protection
This 11th-century hymn is a translation of the Marian antiphon Sub tuum praesidium, used in the Catholic church at Compline. It would be suitable as an anthem at any evening service or indeed at any service where the Virgin Mary is celebrated. Stef Conner’s setting has the feeling of a gospel song about it and, whilst respecting the dynamics, should be sung with gusto. The canonic entries need careful balancing so that each entry is distinct and the men’s entry at bar 25 might benefit from a little help from the organ or piano.
Christopher Leedham: Come away, my love
Using a paraphrase of a celebrated section of The Song of Solomon, this anthem would be appropriate for celebrations of marriage or the coming of Spring. Christopher Leedham’s direction, ’ethereal’ is telling and dynamics need to be strictly observed so that the climaxes at bars 19 and 29 have maximum effect. The metre changes need to be rehearsed carefully and practising these below the actual speed would be beneficial.
Robert Saxton: I will lift up mine eyes to the Lord
Robert Saxton’s setting of Psalm 121 provides a truly ubiquitous anthem, suitable for all kinds of services but particularly moments of celebration. The accompaniment needs careful practice so that the rhythm is secure to support and not distract the choir and the tied quaver clusters are not too obtrusive but still help singers find their starting notes.
Ed Hughes: Nunc dimittis
As a traditional part of the evening service, this Nunc dimittis could fit nicely if the Magnificat is by another composer. With its quiet ending it could also be suitable for funerals or memorial services. Give this a gentle lilt so that the sustained choral parts float above the moving accompaniment and use the composer’s built-in emphases at bars 19-21 to highlight the words with distinct diction. The right- hand accompaniment at bars 58 to 71 needs care so that the cantabile feeling is not undermined.
Laurence Roman: O praise the Lord
Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible and with its directness and singular message there are very many appropriate occasions for this anthem’s use. While the composer’s rhythmic and metrical structure is challenging, it can be easily mastered with lots of slow practice. Try rehearsing at 120 rather than 150 before taking it up to speed. And ask the choir to clap the rhythm (3+3+2+2) of the 10/8 bars before they sing. The piano/organ countermelody first heard in bar 4 is important in establishing this metre and the crossing over of hands may need careful practice.
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