Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: http://read.jwpepper.com/i/1245873
Foreword Let there be peace on earth. This has been the desire of humanity since the beginning of time. But peace isn't merely the absence of war. Peace represents tolerance and understanding between nations, ethnic groups, religions, and even neighborhoods. While our world often seems overrun with conflict, it's the Christmas season and God's promise of peace on earth that keeps us hopeful. Jesus came to offer the ultimate form of peace and to remind us that peace on earth begins in the hearts of individuals. Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me! This gospel-flavored musical for SATB choir reflects on the promise of peace delivered by the angels on the night of Jesus' birth. The iconic ballad "Let There Be Peace on Earth," by Jill Jackson-Miller and Sy Miller is used as musical bookends: its theme is stated briefly in the second movement ("Let Us Adore Him"), then returns in full-blown gospel style at the end to provide an emotional climax to the work. In between, the Christmas story is told through Bible verse narration and the inclusion of beloved songs such as "O Come, All Ye Faithful," "In Royal David's City," "Gentle Mary Laid Her Child," "Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella," and many more. The musical styles range from jazz to gospel to a peppy, upbeat calypso number entitled "Carry Me to Bethlehem." The work is around 35 minutes long and can be performed with choir and piano only. For an enhanced experience, make it a special musical occasion with Ed Hogan's sparkling full orchestration. With this cantata, as with Hope and Joy, the two other cantatas in this series, a smaller rhythm packet is also available for choirs with more limited musical resources to augment the piano accompaniment. Whichever way it is performed, the uplifting message of peace will give your listeners something to calm their spirits throughout the Christmas season. – Joel Raney For Preview Only