Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above: Anthems for Fall 2024 Friday, August 23, 2024
recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist
Sing Praise to God, Who Reigns Above arr. Richard A. Williamson, 2-part mixed with piano
In a joyful, lilting 6/8 meter, Richard A. Williamson has set a well-loved hymn of praise to the tune MIT FREUDEN ZART, creating a singable and enjoyable anthem for 2-part mixed choir. The gracefully altered rhythm of the tune supports the text that sings of God’s healing balm and ever-present help and love. An easily learned anthem useful throughout the year.
Spirit Song (with Fill My Cup, Lord) arr. Joel Raney, SATB with piano
This medley of nostalgic classics pairs two songs that share a common theme. Two pleas for God to enfold us with his Spirit and his love, so we may enter into life in Jesus’ name.
Just a Closer Walk with Thee arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
Feet will be tapping as your choir presents this arrangement from Lloyd Larson! The accessible vocal writing is supported by a jazzy piano accompaniment, and a quiet, introspective section in the middle of the piece provides a perfect contrast. This joyous setting of a cherished hymn is not to be missed.
O Jesus, I Have Promised arr. Thomas Keesecker, SATB with piano
Thomas Keesecker creatively sets this familiar hymn text to the English folksong SALLY GARDENS. With lush and accessible writing, the anthem sings beautifully, and the use of a less familiar folk tune gives a freshness to the text. Appropriate for use with themes of commitment and discipleship.
Now I Belong to Jesus arr. Cindy Berry, SATB with piano
Cindy Berry has elegantly arranged this time-tested hymn for year-round use. Comfortable ranges, easy-to-learn part-writing, and a supportive accompaniment make this piece a joy to learn and sing. Allow this classic song to encourage your listeners for years to come!
God Be In My Head by Howard Helvey, SATB a cappella
This a cappella setting of the familiar sacred text from the Sarum Primer provides a quiet personal reflection in Howard Helvey’s elegant cathedral style. As always, careful attention to detail and voice leading are hallmarks of Howard’s work. May be sung with or without a soloist or keyboard doubling, and multiple length options are provided. Try surrounding your congregation or audience and singing in the round, or sing from the back of the room/hall as a benediction.
Come to Jesus (Rest In Him) arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
The invitation given by Jesus in Matthew 11:28–30 is beautifully expressed in Lloyd Larson’s arrangement of this modern hymn. The warm vocal harmonies are gracefully supported in the piano accompaniment, and the optional orchestration from Ed Hogan brings the scripturally based lyric to life.
Great Is Thy Faithfulness arr. Maureen Howell, SATB with piano
This fresh arrangement of the well-known gospel hymn, set in a bluesy, laid-back style, offers a joyful way to sing your praise. The congregation joins in unison on the final verse to celebrate God’s unwavering love and faithfulness.
The King of Love My Shepherd Is by Ryan Murphy, SAB with organ
As a paraphrase of Psalm 23, the beloved text by Henry Williams Baker was chosen by Ryan Murphy because of its broad appeal across religious traditions. This piece is versatile and appropriate as an anthem during any time of the liturgical year. The new SAB voicing makes this bestselling piece now available to a wide range of choirs.
At the Name by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
Mary McDonald’s triumphant setting of Philippians 2:6–11 features a dynamic melody that gracefully moves through each verse and peaks in the powerful chorus: “At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow, every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Enrich your presentation with an optional orchestration by Michael Lawrence.
God Is Our Refuge by Allen Pote, TTBB with piano and optional 2 trumpets
An Allen Pote classic, characterized by a memorable, easy to sing melody, a beautiful text from Psalm 46, and a driving rhythmic accompaniment that enthralls. For keyboard with optional C or B-flat trumpet duet, this is first-rate material without being difficult and one of the most requested pieces in the Hope catalog.
Total Praise arr. Joel Raney, SSA with piano
This contemporary gospel song has become widely known for its simple message and powerful impact. Joel Raney pairs it with “Holy, Holy, Holy” and provides an accessible, Quick Study version maintaining all the gospel harmonies that make this a worship sensation.
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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.