John Parker Mark Hayes: It Must Be the Holiday Season: SATB: Vocal Score

SKU: LO.99-2057L

UPC: 000308113631.

This dramatic and moving cantata for Lent, Holy Week or Easter is comprised of eight choral pieces, each corresponding to the eight days in the life of Christ from Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday. Audra Parker's narration, easily performed by two people, summarizes the events of this final week. Mark Hayes's melodies and harmonies cover a full spectrum of color, dynamics and emotion. John Parker's lyrics are filled with pathos and joy, helping choir and congregation alike experience the passion story in a profound new way. Forsaken may be performed in concert style with piano, accompaniment CD or full orchestra. Performance time: approximately 35 minutes.

SKU: LO.99-2477L

UPC: 000308121452.

This music drama is approximately nine minutes in length and is perfect for incorporation into regular worship on Palm/Passion Sunday. John Parker’s inspired narrative opens the work with shouts of “Hosanna!” as Jesus enters Jerusalem. Mark Hayes’s score enters with growing intensity, and the choir sings a triumphant anthem of praise. The mood changes during the first interlude, as the high priests plot against Jesus, and the music beautifully underscores the scripture-based narrative. The second chorus conveys the scene at the Last Supper with haunting melodies and a lyrically flowing accompaniment. The mood of the following interlude is one of steadfast faith, quoting the hymn “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name.” Its narrative is inspired by Philippians 2:5–11. The final chorus is a majestic yet reflective affirmation of faith in praise to Jesus, Who was faithful to His final breath.