In The Cross Of Christ I Glory (arr. John Leavitt): SATB Choral Octavo

Leavitt's setting of this beloved hymn captures its affirmation without sentimentality, giving each voice part meaningful melodic material rather than relying on block harmonies. The six-page octavo sits comfortably for mixed ensembles while offering enough harmonic color to reward careful attention to voicing and phrasing.

The music radiates quiet confidence and theological certainty, moving with hymnic dignity while building warmth through its harmonic progressions. Leavitt's orchestration of the voices creates spaces for both intimate reverence and fuller celebration, matching the text's movement from personal conviction to universal hope.

Choirs at the intermediate to advanced level who want a straightforward yet musically satisfying Easter or general sacred music option. This works equally well in churches, high schools, and university choirs seeking liturgical repertoire that doesn't require unusual vocal demands.

• Balance the inner voices during the harmonic expansions; altos and tenors often disappear when sopranos and basses dominate the texture.
• Shape the melodic line through dynamic nuance rather than sudden changes; this hymn benefits from the sense of steady conviction that comes from subtle growth.
• Treat the text naturally, letting phrase lengths follow the sense of the words rather than forcing every line into equal-length units.

Pair this with other Easter or Lenten repertoire to create a thematic concert section, or use it as a closing piece where its steady affirmation provides a strong emotional resolution. The moderate length and straightforward scoring also make it an excellent choice for spring concert programming when rehearsal time is limited.

• Singing harmonic progressions with independent voice leading
• Bringing clarity and blend to four-part SATB texture
• Interpreting hymnic text with appropriate phrasing and dynamic shape
• Balancing lyrical expression with structural clarity in sacred music