The Lord Is Risen: Choral Instrumental Pak
By J. Paul Williams / By Michael Barrett
Item: 35-PK00138990
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Description
The glory of Easter is celebrated in the latest Williams/Barrett collaboration. Incorporating "Jesus Christ Is Risen Today," this piece is a great opener for a traditional/transitional church as it incorporates both newly composed material and a classic hymn quote. The orchestration adds a wonderful exclamation point to this easily-prepared and highly-effective resurrection anthem. Powerful! Duration: ca. 2:13.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00138990
More about this title
About the Composer: J. Paul Williams
J. Paul Williams studied voice at Oklahoma Baptist University before earning his Master of Music in theory and composition from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Over a career spanning decades, he became one of the most prolific choral writers in American church and school music, with more than 700 compositions published across 25 different publishers.
Williams spent 35 years as a Minister of Music, serving congregations throughout Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas while simultaneously building a national presence as a clinician and workshop leader. In the latter half of his career, he shifted focus to lyric writing, partnering with over 50 composers to create works that have reached choirs in churches, schools, and community ensembles worldwide. His music was a staple at major venues including the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California.
Why we love this
Williams and Barrett balance accessibility with genuine musical substance here. The integration of 'Jesus Christ Is Risen Today' feels organic rather than pasted in, and the orchestration does exactly what a good arrangement should: it amplifies the emotional arc without overwhelming singers who are still learning the piece.
What to expect
There's a festive, affirmative quality here that avoids sentimentality. The newly composed sections build energy while the familiar hymn tune grounds listeners in tradition, creating a moment that feels both contemporary and timeless.
Who it's for
This works best for church choirs and community ensembles with modest to intermediate reading skills. The easily-prepared nature makes it ideal for groups planning an Easter service without months of rehearsal time.
How to get the most out of it
- Let the orchestra establish the harmonic foundation in early rehearsals so your singers can lock onto the melodic shape without overexplaining voice parts.
- Shape the dynamic arc through the hymn tune section; resist the urge to stay at full volume just because orchestration supports it.
- Mark any divisi sections clearly in your scores and set expectations about blend during sectional rehearsals.
How to use it
Open a traditional or blended service with this; its two-minute span works perfectly as a processional or a strong statement right after an instrumental prelude. Alternatively, pair it with a quieter Easter meditation as a powerful closing anthem that sends congregants out with unmistakable joy.
Skills your students will build
- Balancing newly composed material with hymn tune quotation
- Responding to orchestral accompaniment cues
- Shaping longer phrases with dynamic restraint
- Blending divisi sections cleanly