SKU: CA.5525900

ISBN 9790007252014. English.

Music for the ages: the coronation anthems Zadok the priest, Let thy hand be strengthened, The King shall rejoice and My heart is inditing, which Handel composed for the coronation of George II in 1727, are true masterpieces of the choral literature. Let thy hand be strengthened was probably performed at the beginning of the coronation ceremony in London's Westminster Abbey.For the Carus edition, available either individually or as a set, musicologist, composer and flutist Alon Schab has returned to the original manuscripts, paying special attention to the specific circumstances that played a role in the creation of the anthems. Befitting such a festive occasion, Handel’s choir in 1727 was a large ensemble composed of singers from two institutions. This six- or seven-voice ensemble had to be carefully balanced to perform the passages for four or five voices. Handel’s autograph score shows how he adapted his composition, originally conceived for a four- or five-voice choir, to the particular circumstances of the premiere: The manuscript is peppered with surprising vocal doublings, insertions, and rests, intended to ensure that, for example, the few tenors were not overpowered by the more numerous altos and basses, the boy sopranos harmonized with the mature voices, and the chorus blended well with the instruments in the rich ambience of Westminster Abbey.This edition traces these ad hoc additions to reveal a score that is startlingly similar to Handel’s familiar and beautifully direct choral style. All editorial decisions are thoroughly documented in the critical report.

SKU: GI.G-6013

UPC: 785147601302. English. Text Source: 2 Corinthians 5:20. Text by Shirley Erena Murray. Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:20.

The text speaks of discipleship and would be a great choice for events focusing on social justice, for a commissioning/sending anthem, or even as part of a healing and reconciliation service. The question of the final phrase (“Shall we now refuse God's call?”) is reflected in the unsteadiness of the musical line, which seems to say, “It's up to each of us to do our part.”.

SKU: TM.03101SC

Transposed: Cl 1&2, Hn 1-4, Tpt 1&2, Tbn 1&2. Orig. Cl 1&2 in A. Organ in set.

SKU: LP.OR-2420

UPC: 765762111004.

An obvious choice for patriotic observances personal and national reliance on God is emphasized. In confidence our cry shall be; In God We Trust! Power ballad feel.