2 posts tagged “bob swift's sacred composition”
It's November; can Advent be far away? But, of course! As Minister of Worship & Arts, I used to have my advent plans together (and music ordered) back in June or July. In October 2004, I decided to supplement my purchased music by composing this simple advent anthem (choir-congregation "antiphon"). Later, I arranged the melody for "The Great Thanksgiving" responsorals. My intent was to create a haunting, mysterioso, modal piece for vocal soloists (cantors) and choir (or congregation), accompanied by 2 violins, clarinet, bassoon, and piano. Each verse concluded with a vocal octet treatment of the text. Here is the full text:
We pray, Lord Jesus come.
Bring justice and peace to all the earth.
Bring hope, love, and joy through your holy birth.
We pray, Lord Jesus come.
Come Jesus, King of Kings.
Send forth your light, your truth unseal.
Your bountiful grace, your wisdom reveal.
Come Jesus King of Kings.
Also, the first verse was sung as a cantor/congregation responsoral each week during the advent wreath candle lighting. Here is an example of me leading the congregation with use of two handbells for accompaniment.
On this All Saints' Day 2006, I include this premier recording of my November 2000 setting of The Beatitudes.
"The Beatitudes"
Text: Matthew 5: 1-13
Music: Bob Swift (November 2000)
Blest are the poor in spirit
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blest are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Rejoice, be glad
for great is your reward in heaven.
Alleluia!
Blest are the meek
for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness,
for they will be filled with righteosness.
Alleluia!
Blest are the merciful
for they will receive mercy.
Blest are the pure in heart
for they will see God.
Blest are the makers of peace
for they will be called children of God.
Alleluia!
Blest are the pursecuted for righteousness.
for theirs is the kingdom of God.
Blest are you when people revile you and say all evil against you.
Rejoice be glad for great is your reward in heaven.
Alleluia! Amen.
