Make His Praise Glorious Op. 105 No. 4 for SATB Choir, Brass and Organ (Vocal Score): Choral Works (inc. Oratorios)

Hovhaness crafted choral writing that feels devotional without sentimentality, combining spiritual substance with musical accessibility. The addition of brass and organ creates a full, resonant sound that transforms a standard SATB setting into something architecturally ambitious, yet the vocal score remains singable and dramatically clear even for intermediate choirs. Repertoire at this sophistication level that doesn't demand a large ensemble but still delivers impressive sound is rare.

The piece unfolds with the quiet certainty of liturgical chant, its modal harmonies creating a sense of timelessness rather than harmonic novelty. Brass enters not as fanfare but as a deepening of color, with the organ anchoring a sonic architecture that feels built rather than decorated. Throughout runs a meditative intensity, the text set to music that honors both prayer and poetic utterance.

This work suits choirs with solid intonation and blend in all four voices, typically at intermediate-advanced levels. It works equally well in church music programs, concert choirs, and educational settings where singers are ready for sustained modal writing and ensemble awareness with brass and organ accompaniment.

• Shape the phrases through breath and consonant clarity rather than dynamic swells; Hovhaness's modal harmony speaks most powerfully when supported by crisp diction and honest legit singing.
• Bring the organ and brass parts to life in rehearsal as a real ensemble, not background accompaniment. The brass especially articulates Hovhaness's harmonic movement and should be balanced to support rather than dominate.
• Explore the relationship between choir and accompanying instruments by rehearsing separately first, then together in stages. This reveals how Hovhaness layers independent but complementary musical lines.

This fits naturally into sacred music programs, interfaith choral celebrations, or concert programs exploring spirituality across traditions. It also serves well as a substantial closing piece that requires focus and preparation, rewarding the effort with a performance that feels complete and ceremonial.

• Singing sustained modal harmony with confident intonation
• Balancing SATB blend while remaining audible over brass and organ
• Shaping longer phrases with breath economy and legit resonance
• Responding to conducted entrance cues coordinated with brass and keyboard instruments