John Parker and David Lantz III bring complementary strengths to sacred choral writing. Parker's compositions for worship settings emphasize singability and emotional directness, while Lantz, a prolific arranger and composer, excels at crafting sophisticated harmonic textures that remain accessible to volunteer and student choirs. Together, they have created works that balance musical substance with practical rehearsal demands.
Why we love this
This setting treats a timeless text with freshness rather than reverence, giving singers genuine musical interest without requiring advanced technique. The seven-page score provides enough musical meat to reward careful rehearsal while staying within reach of most community and church choirs.
What to expect
Contemplative yet alive. The piece balances moments of quiet reflection with passages of warmth and forward motion, capturing both the anticipatory waiting and quiet joy that define Advent. Singers experience the contrast between intimate harmonies and fuller, richer textures that open naturally as the piece unfolds.
Who it's for
SATB choirs in church, school, and community settings preparing music for the Advent season. This works equally well for experienced ensembles seeking substantial repertoire and for developing choirs that need rewarding but manageable material.
How to get the most out of it
Keep the harmonic movement deliberate and clear in early rehearsals; the piece rewards attention to voice leading and blend over flashy dynamics
Balance soaring soprano lines against the foundational support of lower voices; resist the urge to let the top voice dominate
Shape the piece by varying articulation rather than relying on tempo changes alone
Encourage legit tone throughout, even in sections marked with rhythmic interest, to preserve the sacred character of the text
How to use it
Slot this into a December concert or Advent service where you need a centerpiece SATB work that showcases your ensemble's ability to blend and balance. It pairs well with smaller unison or two-part pieces and provides contrast when programmed alongside more modern or contemporary sacred selections.
Skills your students will build
Sustaining long vocal lines with proper breath management and legit tone production
Balancing SATB voicing so harmonic color emerges from blend rather than solo voices
Interpreting harmonic movement and understanding functional relationships within sophisticated chords
Reading and performing dotted rhythmic patterns and syncopation in a sacred context
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
