Speak O Lord: SSA Choral Octavo

Benjamin Harlan's SSA voicing opens this modern hymn to choirs with limited tenor resources while preserving the grandeur of Getty and Townend's composition. The arrangement respects the hymn's contemplative opening and builds intelligently toward moments of real vocal power, giving singers something genuinely satisfying to perform.

Reverent yet present, with an intimate quality that gradually unfolds into something broader and more declarative. The writing invites vulnerability in the opening and builds toward affirmation without sacrificing the prayer-like centeredness of the text.

SSA choirs seeking substantial hymn repertoire that balances accessibility with musical depth. This works equally well for church music programs and concert choirs looking for sacred material that engages singers and audiences alike.

• Balance the soprano lines carefully in the opening phrases; the melody sits high, and clarity matters more than volume.
• Let the harmonic rhythm breathe in the verse sections rather than pushing forward; the text deserves space to land.
• Emphasize consonant articulation on key words like "speak" and "Lord" to reinforce the text's directness and prayer-like quality.
• Use dynamic contrast between verse and refrain to shape the arc of the piece without losing the sacred character throughout.

Pair this with other contemporary hymn settings for a sacred or interfaith concert, or feature it as the anchor of a worship service program. Seven pages of music gives you material substantial enough to showcase your choir's musicianship within a concert context.

• Interpreting modern hymn style with appropriate phrasing and text delivery
• Balancing soprano lines that sit in extended high positions
• Navigating harmonic movement that supports rather than strictly outlines the melody
• Executing dynamic shape at a moderate pace without rushing or dragging