Union and Distinction in the Thought of St Maximus the Confessor presents the writings of a key figure in Byzantine theology in the light of the themes of unity and diversity. The principle of simultaneous union and distinction forms the core of Maximus' thought, pervading every area of his theology. It can be summarized as: Things united remain distinct and without confusion in an inseparable union. As Melchisedec T r nen shows, this master theme also resonates in contemporary theological and philosophical discussions.

for SATB, piano, and optional bass and drum kit The Nidaros Jazz Mass draws on a variety of jazz styles to present a fun and innovative setting of the Latin Missa brevis. With a gentle Kyrie, funky Gloria, ballad-like Sanctus, laid-back Benedictus, and passionate Agnus Dei, this work breathes new life into familiar words, perfectly combining the contemporary with the ancient. Recorded by a professional jazz trio (piano, bass, and drums), this backing track is a useful tool for rehearsal and performance, and is compatible with both mixed- and upper-voice versions.

With a host of accessible, quality new settings, and with pieces based on all the major hymn tunes, these volumes are a must for every church organistas library.

for SATB and organ Archer's setting of this well-known Christmas text is lilting and buoyant, with a memorable melody and charming organ interludes. Suitable for liturgical or concert use, the carol features great textual variety, building to a rousing finish that is sure to fill audiences with Christmas cheer!

for baritone solo, SATB chorus, children's choir (or semi-chorus), and small orchestra (or piano/organ) McDowall's setting of the Stabat Mater has been described as 'an outstanding work of great solemnity and poignancy' (Tempo, 2013). The work comprises seven movements in a symmetrical structure-from the impassioned choral opening, through two intense yet diverse baritone solos and contemplative plainchant chorales, to the stately finale uniting all the voices. The optimistic central movement, in a major tonality, may be performed by children's choir or a semi-chorus of sopranos and altos from the main group. A plaintive meditation on the sorrows of the Virgin Mary as she stands by the Cross, McDowall's Stabat Mater is a sophisticated modern alternative to more well-known settings, ideal for performance at non-liturgical Lenten services. The piano reduction in the score, which can be adapted for organ, may be used for concert performance if an orchestra is not available.

for soloists, SATB, and organ Written for the Choir of Wells Cathedral, of which Matthew Owens is Organist and Master of the Choristers, this setting of the St Matthew Passion is ideally suited to liturgical performance during Holy Week. The principal role of the Evangelist is taken by a baritone soloist, who narrates the story of Christ's trial and Crucifixion in unaccompanied chant. The other, smaller, solo roles of Judas (tenor), Pilate (tenor), Jesus (bass), and Pilate's wife (alto) continue in the same vein, with four-part choral interspersions from the crowds, soldiers, and priests providing a contrast in texture. The hymn 'When I survey the wondrous cross', set to the Rockingham hymn tune, appears twice throughout the work, and the congregation are encouraged to join in on both occasions. The simple organ part supports the voices for the hymn, and may also optionally double the choir during the narrative.

for SATB (with divisions), S. and T. solos, and 10 players Commissioned by Merton College, Oxford, this hour-long work for soloists, choir, and 10 players is divided into seven movements, beginning with Palm Sunday. Jackson's setting takes material from each of the four Gospel narratives, interspersed with Latin hymns and English texts by poets associated with Merton College over the centuries including Edmund Blunden and T. S. Eliot. The vocal score includes a piano reduction for rehearsal purposes.

In Singing the Glory Down, William Lynwood Montell contributes to a fuller understanding of twentieth-century American culture by examining the complex relationships between gospel music and the culture of the nineteen-county study area in which this music has flourished for a hundred years. He has recorded the memories and feelings of those who were young while the movement gathered steam and who remember it at its high point, and stories about those who have passed over that river about which they loved to sing. In the early 1900s, a singing school or gospel convention was a major social event that enticed people to walk for miles to learn to sing or to hear someone who already had. The shape-note teachers of those days conducted days or even weeks of nightly practice, which culminated in a performance that confirmed the teacher's skill. Quartet music originated in these settings. Today, some area quartets still sound much like those early groups; others teach themselves to sing by imitating their favorite professional gospel ensembles.They travel every weekend in buses emblazoned with the names of their groups, with tapes and albums to sell. Through all the changes, the four-part southern harmony of Kentucky gospel music has remained the same. In the words of these performers, through letters, diaries, and interviews, Montell details the attitudes and joys of those involved most deeply in the gospel music scene. He also brings the reader into their personal relationships, their professional jealousies, and their struggles to keep alive the music they love.

This beautifully designed book includes 25 hymns chosen by Joni Eareckson Tada with accompanying devotions and photography designed to spark hope in the midst of hardship.

for TTBB and piano or orchestra Written for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, this new arrangement of the well-known spiritual is presented in two versions: one for mixed chorus and the other for men's voices. Each version opens gently with an effective unaccompanied unison section, and the accompaniment and further choral parts are gradually added. In classic Wilberg style, the piece builds up verse by verse with expanding textures, via two upward modulations, towards a grand and triumphant climax, leaving no doubt about the joy expressed in the text. The male-voice version of He's got the whole world in his hands features on the CD 'Men of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir', with the Orchestra at Temple Square, conducted by Mack Wilberg (SKU 5053126). Orchestral material is available on hire/rental.

for TTBB and piano or organ or small orchestra Originally published in versions for SA and SATB voices, this classic Rutter anthem has now been adapted by the composer for performance by male-voice choirs. The flowing choral melodies perfectly complement the positive message of the well-known thanksgiving text by F. S. Pierpoint, and the gentle, arpeggiated keyboard part provides a supportive harmonic accompaniment.

for SATB and organ Setting a joyful text by William Chatterton Dix, Alleluia, sing to Jesus! is suitable for performance throughout the church year, although its Eucharistic imagery will make it particularly poignant at Holy Communion, Easter, and Ascension. With a bright melody set against a rhythmic organ accompaniment, this triumphant anthem will lift the spirits of performers and listeners alike.

for SATB and organ or chamber orchestra This offering from Mack Wilberg is a joyful yet graceful arrangement of the well-known hymn tune by Conrad Kocher. Featuring a lyrical accompaniment and variations in choral textures, this piece is ideal for Harvest or Thanksgiving celebrations, but can also be used all year round. An orchestral accompaniment is available on hire/rental.

The first thorough examination of the most renowned and influential organist in early twentieth-century Germany and of his complex relationship to his country's tumultuous and shifting sociopolitical landscape. In the course of a multifaceted career, Karl Straube (1873-1950) rose to positions of immense cultural authority in a German musical world caught in unprecedented artistic and sociopolitical upheaval. Son of a German harmonium-builder and an intellectually inclined English mother, Straube established himself as Germany's iconic organ virtuoso by the turn of the century. His upbringing in Bismarck's Berlin encouraged him to develop intensive interests in world history and politics. He quickly became a sought-after teacher, editor, and confidante to composers and intellectuals, whose work he often significantly influenced. As the eleventh successor to J. S. Bach in the cantorate of St. Thomas School, Leipzig, he focused the choir's mission as curator of Bach's works and, in the unstable political climate of the interwar years, as international emissary for German art. His fraught exit from the cantorate in 1939 bore the scars of his Nazi affiliations and issued in a final decade of struggle and disillusionment as German society collapsed. Christopher Anderson's book presents the first richly detailed examination of Karl Straube's remarkable life, situated against the background of the dynamic and sometimes sinister nationalism that informed it. Through extensive examination of primary sources, Anderson reveals a brilliant yet deeply conflicted musician whose influence until now has been recognized, even hailed, but little understood.

For SATB (divisi) with 2 soprano solos

This book surveys North German church music from the period of one of the most well-known of J.S. Bach's immediate German predecessors, Dietrich Buxtehude (c.1637-1707). Particular emphasis is placed on composers whose work has suffered unjust neglect, and on the influence of contemporary Italian church music. As well as providing a detailed study of the music itself, Geoffrey Webber also examines the religious and social background, and aspects of performance practice.

for SATB unaccompanied Let nothing trouble you is a striking and atmospheric setting of a prayer by the Spanish mystic, St Teresa of Avila. This work is both comforting and meditative, reflecting the mood of the text, and the music adds a beautifully haunting quality, through the use of a murmuring two-note motif, widely arching melodies, and reflective imitation. Commissioned by The Genesis Foundation for Harry Christophers and The Sixteen, this piece has been recorded by them on the disc 'O Guiding Night' (COR16090).

for SATB and organ The Missa Sanctae Margaretae is a stunning new setting of the Missa Brevis, showcasing Jackson's mesmerizing choral writing. Scored for SATB and organ, the accessible choral lines move through a variety of textures and harmonies, with linear passages in the Kyrie and Agnus Dei and rich, chordal writing in the Gloria. The idiomatic organ accompaniment brings additional flavour to the music, sometimes answering the choral lines, sometimes offsetting them with fast, rhythmic passages. Ideal for use in services and concerts.

Open your mind and heart, lift your voice, and discover how
the sacred art of chant can enrich your spiritual life.

Chanting with an intention to open our hearts and minds to the presence of God in us helps us to be quiet in the face of mystery and learn how to hear what it has to say to us . Chanting is holistic. It will transform you, you will embody the change, and people will notice the new, more grounded you. More important, though, you will notice the new, more grounded you. from the Introduction

"The Sacred Art of Chant" invites you to use your own voice to create sacred sounds no matter your religious background or vocal ability. Drawing on chants from several different faith traditions, this invigorating guidebook is ideal for anyone who wants to enliven their prayer experience in a unique way and navigate a path to a conscious relationship with God.

Chant isn t just about monks or ancient Hindu gurus this dynamic spiritual art continues to be developed and practiced today. Like other spiritual disciplines, chant can lead to limitless and unexpected benefits. With a steady practice and an open mind, you may find that chant helps you to: Cultivate clarity, focus, and compassion in your daily life Improve your listening skills Raise your energy level Improve your receptivity to other people Transcend the limits you impose on yourself Feel more comfortable in your own skin Ultimately, lead a more complete spiritual life