Lord, Afford a Spring to Me
4-Part - Sheet Music

SATB choir a cappella (SATB choir a cappella)

SKU: AN.AMP-0934

Composed by Stewart Duncan. Edited by Simon Carrington. Octavo. Alliance Music Publications #AMP 0934. Published by Alliance Music Publications (AN.AMP-0934).

Duncan.

Lord, afford a spring to me
Let me feel like what I see
Speak, and by thy gracious voice
Make my drooping soul rejoice
- John Newton Kindly Spring Again is Here (1779)

This piece was composed on the request of Jay Carter, director of the Schola Cantorum of William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri. It aims to evoke both the immediate freshness that spring brings, as well as the possibilities inherent in the coming of a new season, whether that change be actual or spiritual.Throughout the piece, choirs should maintain a sweet and delicate sound, especially in the melody as sung by the upper parts. The piece is designed to leave room for the individual and group artistry of the director and choir to flourish, so do not be afraid to be flexible with the tempo and interpretation.What should result is a natural, organic artistic offering, one that lifts the soul and nourishes the heart.

Stewart Duncan

Truly this piece is a wonderful example of how the maximum effect can be achieved with the most modest means.Soloist and chorus should sing the lines with delicacy and a particular sensitivity to the rhythm of the text. Be sure to let the final unison note float away into the silence and try to dissuade listeners from applauding too soon!