New Church Anthems for Spring 2017 Wednesday, February 01, 2017
recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists
Even in the midst of the ice and snow, it’s time to start planning your choral anthems for this spring! Here are some of our recommendations for Sundays through Lent and Easter, as well as general worship:
FOR LENT
Gather at the Mercy Tree by Lee and Susan Dengler
Perfect for Good Friday or any time during Lent, this thoughtful anthem text beckons the listener to the foot of the “mercy tree” for healing and pardon. The music and text are fresh and inviting, while the piano and choral scoring are well-crafted.
The Weeping Tree by Joseph Martin
The main theme from the best-selling cantata The Weeping Tree is now available as a standalone anthem. With a heart-affirming portrait of the crucifixion and a gentle celebration of grace, the simple folk-like melody carries the weighty message of redemption in the sensitive arms of expressive music. A chamber orchestration option offers directors a way to incorporate this piece into a concert or passion pageant. Profoundly moving!
FOR PALM SUNDAY
Let the People Shout Hosanna! by Alex Gartner
Alex Gartner’s dynamic anthem is a powerful way to begin Holy Week! The high energy piece captures the excitement of Jerusalem on that first Palm Sunday with its joyous melody, changing meters, and dramatic sound.
FOR EASTER
A Resurrection Declaration by Victor Johnson
Alive with vibrant praise, this acclamation of life is a festive flourish for Easter Sunday. The rhythmic theme is punctuated by a message of confidence and unbounded joy, and the majestic brass and timpani and sparkling handbell parts will lift this invigorating anthem to the skies. Glorious!
FOR GENERAL WORSHIP
Because He Lives arr. Mary McDonald
This classic song by Bill and Gloria Gaither explores how the resurrection of Christ transforms the lives of believers. Mary McDonald’s superb choral writing and Michael Lawrence’s dynamic orchestration add a fresh dimension to the congregational favorite.
God of Grace and Glory by Joseph Martin
Walls of sound announce with confidence and power the glorious character of the Almighty as this festive anthem unfolds. An original tune rich with vitality and punctuated with exciting mixed meter moments forms the main theme. The anthem is crowned with a moment incorporating congregation as all join in singing the traditional hymn with a soaring descant. Awesome!
At the Name of Jesus arr. Lloyd Larson
A strong, resolute setting of the classic hymn, scored for SATB Choir and Organ or Piano, incorporating ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS NAME for optional congregation participation. The setting is well within the reach of the average church choir and will make a powerful statement in any service of worship.
Did you miss out on attending our January Sacred Choral Reading Session? If you’re interested in purchasing a packet from this year’s clinic (including these and many more selections for spring worship), please contact us!
You can also click here to view our entire Sacred Choral promotion for Spring 2017, or visit our Virtual Workshop. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Authors:
Judy H. has been working in Stanton’s Choral Department since 1975. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Bowling Green State University, and a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from The Ohio State University. A member of the Grove City Chamber Singers, Judy also enjoys reading and spending time with her four grandchildren.
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 14 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is a soprano section leader in the Chancel Choir at First Community Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.
