Isaac Watts (1674-1748) wrote the lyrics of 'There is a land of pure delight' and is known as the 'Father of English Hymnody'. Watts was for the English hymn as Ambrose was for the medieval Latin hymn and what Martin Luther was for the German chorale. He wrote about 750 songs and some of them survide the ravahes of time. (Joy To The World When I survey the wondrous cross I sing the Mighty Power of God) 'There is a Land of Pure Delight' is usually in English-speaking areas sung on Luther Orlando Emerson's melody ('Ascription'). Here is used a traditional English melody ('Mendip'). There is a land of pure delight Wheresaints immortal Reign. Infinite day excludes the night And pleasures banish pain ..

Continuing in the tradition of her innovative electroacoustic band works including Paper Cut Immersion and Tight Squeeze Alex Shapiro's Liquid Compass takes the musicians and the audience on a journey that spans the mystical and the triumphant. A subliminal connection to the sea is conveyed through the creative use of metal bowls filled with water and flutists will particularly enjoy the otherworldly “ooh-wah” effect that wends through the piece. Commemorating¦the 140th anniversary of Carthage College's wind band this work¦migrates to different places but never loses its bearings in pursuit of a musical true north.To perform thepiece you'll need an audio system capable of playing the prerecorded audio tracks from a laptop computer via a small digital audio interface connected to an audio mixer. Download information is provided in the printed piece. Dur: 9:00

Eric includes three traditional carols: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Silent Night and Joy To The World in a medley for holiday programming.