Break Forth Into Joy: SATB

For Advent, Palm Sunday, or any time, Break Forth Into Joy celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2016. The short duration and effective part-writing make the anthem quick to learn but the final effect is impressive. Based on old-testament scriptures, the pleasing lilt of 6/8 helps capture the unbounded joy of a people 'preparing the way.' / Choeur Mixte (SATB)

Uses: General Youth Choir ConcertScripture: Psalm 96:1-5; Isaiah 42:10Unbridled praise breaks forth in this festive contemporary choral based on the Psalms. Syncopations and mixed meter animate theprimary theme with an enthusiastic spirit admonishing the faithful to “Sing to the Lord a new song!” A lovely contrasting middle section provides musical and lyrical variety before launching into an excitingrecapitulation. The final drive to the end is a perfect punctuation mark to this call to joyful praise. Duration: ca. 2:57.

In this psalm of praise the solo soprano and flute begin in a recitative finally joined by choir and instruments in a joyful modulation from C to E major. The organ plays a major role with soprano and flute as running sixteenth notes in the left hand describe God's many and continued blessings. The middle section is a retreat from the driving rhythm reminded by both soprano and flute of the peace of God's healing of sin and disease for all who ask. Once again the music breaks forth into praise as it builds to a final sforzando of exultation in praise of God.