For SATB Voices and Keyboard with opt. Congregation
By James J. Chepponis
This hymn-anthem tells the astounding story of the God who is revered by all of creation- earth, sea, and sky- choosing Mary to be the mother of the Savior. The mixed meters employed for the 6th-century poetry are anything but jarring, and the middle stanza is set to different music with a medieval feel that accentuates the repetition of the word "blest" to describe Mary's destiny. A delightful but substantial anthem useful for Marian feasts as well as Christmastide. The keyboard part works well on both organ and piano. Congregational participation is welcome but not required; reprint material is included.