Jesus Paid It All: Anthems for Lent & Palm Sunday 2023 Wednesday, January 25, 2023
recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist
Jesus Paid It All by Marianne Forman, SA(T)B with piano
Marianne Forman’s skill at writing elegant music for smaller choirs shines brightly in this new tune for the traditional hymn text. SA(T)B voicing makes this anthem effective yet accessible for choirs of any size.
Calvary’s Tree by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
This beautifully conceived and heartfelt anthem is perfect for Good Friday or anytime during Lent. The soft, sad cadence and 6/4 meter hauntingly depict Christ’s painful and long walk to the cross. The refrain of “Blessed Redeemer” soars between verses before the piece calms to a hushed and reverent conclusion.
I Am He! by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
In this soaring ballad from Mary McDonald and Rose Aspinall, the words of Jesus come to life as a worshipful, reverent anthem. Full of scriptural references, the message of who Jesus is is powerfully stated. This anthem is suitable for worship services throughout the year or surrounding Easter and Holy Week services.
Crucified! Jesus Dies for You and Me by Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This selection is perfect for Holy Week and Good Friday services. Your congregation will be held in rapt attention as the scale-based melody of Lloyd Larson’s somber verse gives way to a hopeful chorus proclaiming that Jesus dies for you and me. The part-writing is not difficult, and the choir is carried along by a constantly inventive and beautiful piano accompaniment. This is sure to become a standard in your library for years to come.
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
This anthem, extracted from Lloyd’s best-selling cantata “A Festival of Hymns,” is not to be missed. Opening simply, with a quiet solo, the music gradually builds until the final measures practically explode in a grand gesture of praise and commitment. Lloyd’s signature part-writing, his rich choral textures, and an artistically conceived piano accompaniment make this an anthem you will return to again and again.
The Old Rugged Cross arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
Here is a lush and beautiful setting of George Bennard’s beloved Lenten hymn. In a refreshing twist, the setting begins in a stately 4/4, eventually moving into the traditional 3/4 where it builds to a glorious finish.
Take Up Your Cross, the Savior Said arr. Howard, Helvey, SA(T)B with piano
This rugged early American tune provides an assertive choral repertoire option during the Lenten season: “Take up your cross, the Savior said, if you would my disciple be; take up your cross with willing heart, and humbly follow after me.”
Hosanna, Loud Hosanna arr. Sheldon Ridge Love, SATB with organ and optional children’s choir, congregation, brass quartet & timpani
A new festival setting of the traditional hymn, sure to add energy and joy to your Palm Sunday celebration. For SATB choir and organ with optional brass quartet and percussion, as well as optional children’s choir and congregation.
Lift High the Palms! by Joseph Martin, 2-part mixed (optional SAB) with piano
Opening with a driving energy, this choral wonderfully captures the celebratory occasion of Palm Sunday. The optional hushed a cappella section provides a wonderful contrast, and after a return to the opening theme, the anthem concludes with a satisfying flourish.
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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 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 and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.