Movement 17 from Handel's Messiah, this is a joyous SATB chorus, complete with trumpets, woodwinds, strings, and harpsichord. The text of "peace on Earth, goodwill towards men" is perfect for Christmas. Orchestral direction reflects the London Philharmonic Orchestra recording. Includes mvmnt. 16 (an 8-measure soprano recitative) as an introduction.
D
Movement 20 in Handel's Messiah is a gentle, flowing double aria for alto and soprano. The text describes how Jesus will protect his people. The alto sings the first half in F, and then the soprano takes over in Bb for the second half. Simple and beautiful. Could be done by one singer with a large range, but really perfect to feature two.
F
This quiet alto aria about Christ's generosity towards his abusers is the B section of movement 23 of the Messiah. It was recorded separately so that it can be used alone, as a short and simple aria, or as a bridge to "He Was Despised" (Spiritrax 1208) as per Handel's original instructions.
Cm
A full-blown fugue for SATB chorus, in grand Renaissance style. Handel doubles all the choral parts clearly in the orchestra, making this an easy fugue to sing. Movement 25 of the Messiah.
Fm
A slow, deliberate tenor recitative, movement 25 of Handel's Messiah, describing Christ's sorrow at being abandoned to his fate. String orchestra with harp and harpsichord, matching Handel's original score.
B
Movement 32 of Handel's Messiah is an aria for tenor (or soprano). Moderately, calm, and stately, it occurs just after Christ is killed, and reassures the audience that his death is temporary. Orchestral direction and tempos follow the London Philharmonic recording with Walter Susskind conducting.
A
A contemporary version of this hymn about drawing strength from Jesus, with guitars, piano, and rhythm section. Uplifting and relaxed, perfect for Lent and Ash Wednesday services.
D F Ab
Sometimes used with children on Ash Wednesday because of the "ashes" in the lyrics, this is a light orchestral version of the traditional game. Brief introduction and interlude gives the kids time to get into position, and several repeats make it just long enough for a little performance.
C Bb D
A gentle orchestral arrangement of this classic Lent hymn. Soft strings, woodwinds, and horns anchor the simple melody and make it easy to sing.
F D A
A joyful contemporary arrangement of this Easter hymn. Simple lyrics tell the Easter story, to the music of a Dutch folk tune. Acoustic guitar, piano, bass, and percussion.
C Eb G
A rollicking country gospel version of the old spiritual, with twangy guitars, honky-tonk piano, upright bass, and a train rhythm on the drums. Six upbeat verses, fun for children or adults.
G C E
A dramatic orchestral backing track to the famous Christmas carol. Plenty of ringing bells and chimes create a shimmering Christmas spirit. Three verses with short interludes between then.
C G Eb
An ambient contemporary version of this Lenten hymn, with a quiet, thoughtful mood perfect for Lent. Six verses, with a short introduction and outro.
Fm Dm Abm
A contemporary Christian arrangement of this powerful Easter hymn. Four verses, with guitars, synth, bass, and drums.
D Bb F
A mellow and simple, yet moving arrangement of the classic hymn, This Is My Father's world. Perfect for soloists and congregational singing. Original text by Maltbie D Babcock and tune by Franklin L Shephard, published in 1901. Three verses, with a key change - up one whole step - for the third verse.
C D F
