Lead Me to Calvary: Anthems for Lent 2020 Wednesday, January 29, 2020
recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists
On the Mount Called Calvary by Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano and optional narration & cello
Lloyd Larson and Carol M. Hodge collaborated on this stirring anthem, featuring the tune WONDROUS LOVE. It incorporates a scripture reading from Luke 23 and can be enhanced with an optional cello part. This anthem is easy to prepare yet extremely effective for Good Friday reflection.
Lead Me to Calvary arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB a cappella
This delicate a cappella setting of “Lead Me to Calvary” is a reflection upon the significance of Calvary. Careful four-part voice leading helps choirs successfully execute a cappella singing. A rich choral background supports an expressive alto solo on the second verse, before the piece returns to homophonic texture and a soft, prayerful ending.
Wondrous Love by Wes Cameron, SAB with piano
Asking, “Why would the Son of God lay down his life for me?” this Good Friday ballad exalts the “wondrous love the Savior showed for me!” Opening with a hint of the hymn “What Wondrous Love Is This,” this Lenten anthem is easily learned and makes a powerful statement.
Who Is This? by Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano
“Who is this, despised, rejected, mocked, insulted, beaten, bound? ‘Tis Christ, the man of sorrows, dying in agony. ‘Tis Christ, the suff’ring Savior, hanging there on Calvary’s tree.” Victor C. Johnson’s anthem is a dramatic yet simple reflection on Christ’s Crucifixion. Focusing on the immense sacrifice at Calvary, it is an excellent choice for a contemplative moment in a Holy Week or Good Friday service.
On a Hill Far Away by Joseph M. Martin, SATB with piano
This original musical setting in a contemplative, minor tonality gives a distinct character to the familiar hymn text by George Bennard. With comfortable ranges and very accessible four-part writing, it is an excellent fit for smaller choirs or those looking for a quickly learned piece for Holy Week.
Lenten Meditation by Jay Althouse, 2-part mixed with piano
Solid melodic writing combines with fluid inner choral lines to create a memorable choral anthem ideal for the Lenten season. New voicings for Two-Part Mixed, SSA and TTBB are now available.
Mercy’s Promise by Patti Drennan, SATB with piano and optional oboe or C instrument
More than just a meditation for Good Friday, Rose Aspinall’s impassioned text about the sacrifice of Christ on the cross is a call to “Look up!” and receive the gift of salvation. Set in a minor key in 12/8 meter with an optional oboe or C instrument part, this stirring anthem is powerful and expressive.
Find more anthems for Lent in our Listening Library, or call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC to speak with our Sheet Music Specialists. 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.