for SATB unaccompanied This setting of Phineas Fletcher's text is gentle and flowing, with a lilting, descending motif to characterise the 'slow tears'. Archer offers nuanced dynamics and imitative entries in this simple but expressive piece, suitable for Lent and Passiontide.

for SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied This is a beautiful and dynamic setting of well-known words from the Song of Songs (or Song of Solomon). With a soaring soprano melody, McGlade's fluid vocal lines drive harmonic twists within an immediately accessible sound-world. Perfect for concert performance.

for SATB and organ or piano This Easter carol is based on J. M. Neale's translation of the Latin Piae Cantiones and occupies a captivatingly exotic soundworld. Sheehan's setting is in strophic form, with a texture that builds from verse to verse and with varying harmonizations, culminating in a dramatic cadence.

The sweetness of music is something that has puzzled Christian theologians for centuries. In this study, Luther's theology of music is approached from the point of view of pleasure. It examines the significance of joy, beauty and pleasure in relationship with music and Luther's theology. The notion of music as the supreme gift of God requires also a discussion about the idea of 'gift'. Music opens up new perspectives into Luther's thinking. Luther has seldom been reckoned among aesthetic theologians. Nevertheless, Luther has a peculiar view on beauty, understanding faith as a kind of aesthetic contemplation.

for SATB and organ, with optional congregation This congregational mass setting is short and accessible, with a congregational part that may be intuitively learnt. The organ plays a supportive role throughout, while the choral parts are of melodic and harmonic interest, but always keeping the discernibility of the text at the fore. The congregational part, which may be photocopied, is available at the back of the vocal score.

for SATB and organ This Easter anthem sets an evocative text by J. M. C. Crum. Stately, expressive vocal lines are underpinned by a lively organ part, with crisp staccato melismas that pop out of the texture.

for SATB and organ or orchestra This radiant anthem is an arrangement of William F. Smith's hymn tune 'Lattimer', frequently paired with the popular gospel song 'This little light of mine'. Wilberg gives each section of the choir a presentation of the melody, beginning with the sopranos, before building towards a climactic finish with new harmony and texture as light spreads 'across the land'.

for SATB and organ A celebratory carol in a lilting 12/8 metre, Christmas Welcome sets a joyful fifteenth-century text written by the English priest and poet John the Blind Audelay. Whitbourn employs textural contrasts and call-and-response style pairings of voices to great effect, and the soloistic organ writing allows plenty of opportunity for organists to explore the full range of their instrument.

for SATB (with divisions) and piano Brimming with groove and energy, this is a terrific arrangement of the popular spiritual. Chilcott's syncopated melodies and jazzy harmonies are well supported by the piano accompaniment, which features a walking bass. Perfect for adding a bit of spark to any concert programme. Originally published in Spirituals for Choirs.

for SATB unaccompanied or with optional handbells (or percussion, or organ) Sarah Quartel brings a fresh take on a familiar fifteenth-century text in this enchanting carol. The dialogue between Mary and the infant Jesus is woven to a beguiling folk-like melody, in 6/8 metre, through each of the voice parts, with each verse ending in the lilting refrain 'Lully, by by, lullay'. The carol may be sung unaccompanied, though for added sparkle there is an optional part for handbells (or percussion or organ). Also available in a version for upper voices.

for SATB unaccompanied with optional congregation William Blake's poem, 'A Cradle Song', is brought to life in this elegant setting by Chilcott. The gentle, recurring melody is passed from sopranos to altos, supported by 'oo's and 'ah's in the lower voices. In the last section, the congregation (or semi-chorus) joins in with 'Away in a manger', which is skilfully weaved into the vocal texture as a countermelody. This is truly a carol for everyone.

for SATB and piano or organ or trio A lilting 3/4 metre carries the listener through this familiar Christmas story, beautifully depicted in a text by the composer. Rutter employs artful word-painting throughout, and the verse-refrain structure enables the compelling melody to soon become as familiar as any traditional carol of the season. Christ our Emmanuel may be accompanied by piano or organ, or by flute, oboe, and harp. Two versions of the vocal score are available: one with piano accompaniment and one with organ accompaniment. Full scores and parts are available for purchase.

for SATB and piano or organ or trio A lilting 3/4 metre carries the listener through this familiar Christmas story, beautifully depicted in a text by the composer. Rutter employs artful word-painting throughout, and the verse-refrain structure enables the compelling melody to soon become as familiar as any traditional carol of the season. Christ our Emmanuel may be accompanied by piano or organ, or by flute, oboe, and harp. Two versions of the vocal score are available: one with piano accompaniment and one with organ accompaniment. Full scores and parts are available for purchase.

for SA (with soprano solo) and piano This thought-provoking carol takes up the topical theme of the plight of refugees, drawing parallels with the stories and reception of Christ's birth. The text, by the composer, alludes to familiar lines from the Coventry Carol, rooting the piece in tradition while encouraging us to consider our present. The verses feature contrasting textures and changing metres, while a soft, reflective refrain stands steadfastly in triple metre. This carol was originally published in a version for unaccompanied mixed voices, with soprano solo.

for SSA and piano This is a high energy, foot-tap inducing setting of a well-known text. The bluesy melodies, jazzy harmonies, and swung rhythms give the piece a gospel feel and fill you with the infectious urge to boogie along to the music. Powerful voices and enthusiasm required. Also available in a version for SATB and piano. An optional bass and drum kit part is available as a free PDF download from the OUP website.