April 2, 2023

The music for Palm Sunday of course follows the mood of the service and its readings, from the procession with palms and the singing of "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" (154), to the Gospel hymn, "O sacred head, sore wounded" (168), the famous music by Hans Leo Hassler harmonized by J S Bach; note that there are 2 different authors of the text.

Our anthem, "O Saviour of the World", was written by the English Arthur Somervell (1863-1937), who followed Hubert Parry as another important composer of art songs, as well as other church music and other instrumental music. The text itself can be found in the Book of Common Prayer as the antiphon at the Visitation of the Sick.

At communion, first we will hear a rendition of the hymn "Forty days and forty nights", played by Martha Bailey on the harp; then the choir will sing a beautiful arrangement of "Were you there", by Raymond Haan (b. 1938 and still living outside Grand Rapids, MI). Mr. Haan has spent his career in that area, serving in churches and composing a number of choral and organ works that are very popular.

In preparation for Holy Week, we close with the singing of "Ah, Holy Jesus" (158) and leave in silence (no postlude).

Do attend what you can during the week, including the Easter Vigil (Sat., 7P) joined by Fletcher Methodist and the Lutherans -- and, of course, the Festival Service Easter Sunday, at 10:30A with choir, organ, and 2 trumpets!