Music Notes for Ascension Sunday

Upstairs in the music department, we've officially entered summer choir - that is, only the men of the choir singing in June, and the women in July. We do not rehearse on Wednesday nights, and call is on Sunday mornings in the choir room. If you're interested in singing with us, now is the perfect time to give us a try - the music is simple and straightforward, and the fellowship outstanding!
 
Of the Introit, and Offertory, Matthew writes: 
 
Bach based multiple organ preludes on one of his favorite chorale tunes, Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr.  The trio setting BWV 664 has often been compared to the rush of angel's wings; and indeed, its busy intertwined counterpoint does in fact suggest (if not angels) a divine musical mind.  François Couperin's "Mass for the Convents," like all French organ masses, comprises series of versets (short organ pieces) for the various sections of the mass ordinary plus a free-standing Offertoire. The latter movement, in several sections, makes use of the most impressive tonal resources of the French Classic organ: its colorful reed and cornet stops, which the St Philip Fritts has in abundance.
 
For the Introit, a little bit of ancient chant specially designed to be sung to celebrate the Ascension, translated into English for the purposes of our Reformed worship. This chant consists of three parts - an opening segment celebrating Christ's ascenscion, the Psalm for the day, and a statement of the Gloria Patri - all in a monophonic, unadorned line that twists and turns in graceful, evocative fashion. 
 
The Anthem is our wonderful Childrens' Choir, singing a lovely little piece for singers, metallophone, finger cymbals and solo flute. Next up, the children begin work on the Summer Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which will be presented during Rally Sunday in September! 
 
- Justin Smith