A Pentatonic Psalm (Bless The Lord, O My Soul): Choral Instrumental Pak

Purifoy's use of pentatonic patterns gives this anthem a modern sensibility while keeping it rooted in a tonal center that feels both grounded and luminous. The handbell writing is integral, not ornamental, creating textural layers that elevate the work beyond standard praise anthem fare without requiring your players to have advanced virtuosity.

Bright, flowing, and celebratory. The pentatonic foundation gives the piece a clean, almost folk-like quality that feels inviting rather than austere, while the handbell textures add shimmer and sophistication. There is genuine exuberance here without sentimentality.

This work suits church choirs of intermediate skill, particularly those with access to handbell players or willing to add them for special services. It also works well in community and school settings where you want something that sounds fresh and contemporary without excessive technical demands.

• Balance the pentatonic melody so it floats above the harmonic foundation rather than sitting on top of it; this transparency is what makes the modal quality shine.
• Coordinate handbell entries with your choir's breath points; they should feel like natural extensions of the vocal line, not interruptive.
• Lean into the jubilant character through articulation and energy in the text painting, especially during moments where the pentatonic scale patterns repeat.

This anthem fits beautifully into a service celebrating praise and thanksgiving or as a benediction that leaves the congregation uplifted. Program it alongside more traditional hymn-based repertoire to showcase the range of contemporary sacred music available to your choir.

• Reading and singing in pentatonic scale patterns
• Blending voices across changing harmonic textures
• Coordinating choral attacks and releases with instrumental accompaniment
• Understanding modal and contemporary harmonic language in sacred music