There Is a Star: Choral Instrumental Pak
Item: 35-PK00436903
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Description
This seasonal selection from the cantata "Morning Star" has had a number of noteworthy recordings and performances and is now being made available to church choirs. A singular progression brings freshness to the theme while the shimmering word painting will appeal to choirs of distinction. Written in a timeless quality, the text directs our attention to the prophecy of the Bethlehem star and the hope for Jesus, the Light of the World. Remarkable! Score and Parts (fl 1-2, ob, cl 1-2, bn, hn 1-2, tpt 1-3, tbn 1-2, btbn/tba, timp, perc 1-2, hp, pno, vn 1-2, va, vc, db) available as a digital download.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00436903
More about this title
Why we love this
The harmonic language here avoids the predictable cadences that dominate most Christmas repertoire; instead, a singular progression creates genuine freshness while the orchestration remains transparent enough for church venues with modest instrumental resources. Word painting on text imagery gives singers a vivid compositional anchor, making interpretation feel intuitive rather than imposed.
What to expect
Light refracts through water. The harmonic progression moves with gentle inevitability while instrumental colors shimmer around the vocal lines. The piece carries a timeless quality; it could belong to any era, yet it feels urgent and contemporary in its simplicity.
Who it's for
This works best for church choirs with access to a semi-professional or volunteer orchestra, particularly those seeking repertoire beyond the standard Christmas carol arrangements. Directors programming Advent or Epiphany services will find the theological focus on the Star of Bethlehem and themes of hope a natural fit.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the choir against the harp and piano; these instruments shimmer most effectively when they're heard distinctly rather than buried beneath the vocal line.
- Let the instrumental introduction establish the harmonic world clearly. Conductors should give the orchestra room to breathe here so the singers enter into an already fully realized sound.
- The word painting moments reward attention to vowel shape and articulation. Collaborate with your singers on what 'shimmering' should sound like in their mouths, not just in the orchestra pit.
How to use it
Position this as a centerpiece for an Advent or Epiphany service rather than buried in a longer Christmas concert program. Its spiritual weight and orchestral sophistication make it an excellent anchor around which you might program smaller a cappella works or instrumental interludes.
Skills your students will build
- Singing over sustained harmonic progressions that don't resolve on predictable beats
- Responding to word painting cues in real time with ensemble awareness
- Balancing vocal blend when orchestral colors shift underneath the choir
- Reading in concert with multiple instrumental lines rather than following a single accompaniment part