News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

New Church Anthems for Spring 2019 Monday, February 04, 2019

recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

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:

lorenz-532171FOR LENT
When Hope Fell Silent arr. Mary McDonald
From “Jesus! The Resurrection of the Messiah,” this solemn selection by Mary McDonald and Rose Aspinall captures the pain, anguish, and hopelessness surrounding the moment of Christ’s death. Rose’s powerful lyrics challenge the listener to contemplate the feelings of uncertainty and loss that were experienced as Jesus breathed his final breath. Perfect for Good Friday and Holy Week worship.

Upon-a That Cross arr. Mark Hayes
With a plaintive, mournful tone this new original Lenten/Holy Week/Good Friday spiritual text is set to the familiar tune “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child.” Mark Hayes provides a rich gospel arrangement that underscores the urgency of the moment.

alfred-510332FOR PALM SUNDAY
Lift High the Palms! by Joseph M. Martin
This anthem opens with a driving energy, capturing the celebratory occasion of Palm Sunday. The (optional) hushed a cappella section provides a wonderful contrast leading back to a reprise of the opening theme. The anthem then drives to a satisfying flourish. Exciting!

FOR EASTER
Crown Him with Many Crowns arr. Mary McDonald
Celebrating Christ’s victory over death, this is perhaps the most majestic Easter hymn, and certainly worthy of the claim in this powerful presentation. It is rich with the joy of Easter and symbolism of faith, representing Christ’s kingship, royalty, and triumph over the grave. The addition of organ, brass, and timpani elevates the impact of this triumphant Easter celebration.

bpi-bp2166-fFOR GENERAL WORSHIP
Footsteps by Craig Courtney
The image of the footsteps of the Savior leading us onward provides a foundation for our testimony of trust. An intimate and compelling text and artistic choral writing, enhanced by a lovely piano accompaniment, combine beautifully in this gentle and accessible setting. Gorgeous!

My Faith Looks Up to Thee arr. Jay Rouse
Jay Rouse placed his distinctive signature sound on this beloved hymn of faith that s sure to be embraced by choirs and congregations. Gorgeous accompaniment, rich sonorities, and fresh choral interpretations abound in this hymn setting where old meets new.

lorenz-531251Soli Deo Gloria (To the Glory of God Alone) by Marty Parks
This driving, energetic anthem by Marty Parks seamlessly combines original material with excerpts from the hymn “All Creatures of Our God and King.” Suitable for worship throughout the church year, the engaging and readily learned syncopations will quickly ensure that this piece becomes a standard in your library.

Did the snowy weather keep you from attending our January Sacred Choral Reading Session? If you’re interested in purchasing a packet from this season’s clinic (including these and many more selections for spring worship), please contact us! Visit our YouTube channel for live footage of the clinic, and remember – 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 15 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church and sings in the First Church Choir at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.

< Previous|Next >