Gloria (arr. John Purifoy): Choral Instrumental Pak
As performed by Michael W. Smith / Arranged by John Purifoy
Item: 35-PK00037675
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Description
Michael W. Smith's Christmas classic pairs "Angels We Have Heard on High" with a wonderfully original treatment of the angels' message, "Gloria in Excelsis Deo!" Beginning quietly with the "Gloria" lyrics, this fully orchestrated choral setting grows into an exuberant anthem of joy and praise for the newborn king! Performance Time: Approx. 3:40.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00037675
More about this title
About the Artist: Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith built his career bridging contemporary Christian music and mainstream pop, establishing himself as one of the most commercially successful artists in modern Christian music. His ability to craft memorable melodies and emotionally resonant arrangements has made his catalog a staple in worship settings, concert halls, and holiday celebrations across multiple generations.
Why we love this
John Purifoy's arrangement respects the quiet reverence of the opening while building toward genuine exuberance rather than shouting. The interweaving of "Angels We Have Heard on High" with the "Gloria in Excelsis Deo" text creates a sophisticated musical conversation that feels earned, not forced, giving your singers something architecturally interesting to inhabit.
What to expect
The opening whispers its message of angels and glory with almost liturgical simplicity. Then, gradually, warmth and light accumulate until the piece breaks into open-hearted celebration that feels genuinely jubilant rather than commercially bright.
Who it's for
Directors programming Christmas concerts who want a piece with both intimacy and grandeur will find this arrangement delivers on both fronts. Chamber choirs and smaller ensembles can perform it effectively, while larger groups will relish the full orchestration.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the opening "Gloria" section with restraint. The power of this arrangement lives in its contrast, so resist the urge to push volume early. Let the orchestration do the heavy lifting as the arrangement unfolds.
- Balance the chamber voicing carefully during the transition from quiet opening to full anthem. Your soloists or section leaders will need clarity on where the texture thickens so the blend stays cohesive.
- Articulate text crisply when the "Gloria in Excelsis Deo" material enters. The joy reads clearly only if singers commit to clear consonants and engaged vowels, especially at faster tempos.
How to use it
Place this near the end of your Christmas concert where it can serve as both a moment of profound peace and a joyful sendoff. Its 3:40 length makes it ideal for bridging sets or standing alone as a festive finale.
Skills your students will build
- Controlling dynamics across extended crescendos
- Blending four-part harmony with chamber voicing
- Text projection when lyrics repeat across different melodic material
- Responding to orchestral accompaniment cues and phrasing
- Sustaining musical narrative across a three-part formal structure