John Purifoy is a composer with deep roots in choral writing, particularly in sacred and liturgical contexts. His work consistently demonstrates a gift for text painting and harmonic sophistication that remains accessible to singers at all levels.
Why we love this
Purifoy and Stewart have created something genuinely fresh for Christmas programming. The piece avoids the well-trodden carol arrangements that dominate December rehearsals, offering instead a contemplative meditation on the Incarnation that will feel new to singers and audiences alike.
What to expect
Contemplative and luminous, with the harmonic language suggesting both wonder and reverence. The texture opens outward gradually, creating space for reflection on incarnational themes without sentimentality.
Who it's for
This octavo works for choirs of moderate technical skill who want to move beyond standard Christmas repertoire. It suits both concert settings and liturgical use, making it valuable for programs that need music serving both performance and worship contexts.
How to get the most out of it
Balance the soprano and alto lines carefully in the opening; they weave together in ways that require both clarity and blend rather than typical soprano dominance.
Pay attention to text clarity on longer note values. Consonants must land precisely so the theological language lands with the listener.
Shape phrases by the text's natural punctuation rather than by bar lines. This reveals the harmonic movement more organically.
How to use it
Position this as a moment of repose within a Christmas concert, perhaps between more rhythmically active pieces. Its seven pages fit naturally into a varied program that balances celebration with theological depth, or use it as an anthem for Christmas services where a non-traditional approach fits your worship aesthetic.
Skills your students will build
Balancing overlapping melodic lines in close harmony
Sustaining tone quality on longer note values
Shaping musical phrases by text syntax rather than metrical structure
Interpreting text through harmonic color and voice leading
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
