Easter
It is Finished… Tetelestai
A new perspective on the final words of Christ is visited in this pensive Holy Week offering. The Greek phrase tetelestai, translated as "it is finished," was often used in business transactions in biblical times, meaning "paid in full." This poignant realization is the heart of this bittersweet anthem that incorporates the Solveig's Song theme and the sorrowful strains of the well-known ABERYSTWYTH hymn tune.
- J.W. Pepper
Palms of Praise
"The triumphant ride into Jerusalem is such a wonderful day to celebrate. The words and song of Patricia Mock reflect the fervor of the festive crowd and encourage us to raise our palms in praise. This piece is dance-like, accessible and joyous!"
- J.W. Pepper
Come to save
"Patricia Mock composes melodies and words that flow easily with passion and truth. This anthem celebrates Christ's sacrifice and love for us with that same flowing quality. Arranger Faye Lopez has set it beautifully with a well-crafted piano part, alternating melodies between the vocal parts and smart modulations. Excellent for Communion or Lent."
- J.W. Pepper
When Jesus Prayed
"Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane is often set in a dark and lonely tone. Patricia Mock and Richard Nichols bring us into a prayer for the entire world. This is a rich and meaningful moment in text and harmony. Contemplative and easy to learn."
- J.W. Pepper
Behold What Wondrous Love
"This very accessible anthem has a strong Lenten text and alludes to the hymn What Wondrous Love Is This. The women and the men each have a turn at leading verses, and the four-part writing will be easy for your choir to learn. Draw in your worshipers with this scripturally grounded anthem."
- J.W. Pepper
Celebrate the Empty Tomb
"With joyful energy befitting Easter morn, this is a great song of celebration. The two-part voicing was designed with children and youth choirs in mind, but can work with adult voices as well. A simple but effective handbell part is designed to work with a handbell choir or members of the chorus."
- J.W. Pepper
Christ Has Paid It All
"This highly recommended work for the Lenten season combines elements of the familiar Were You There text with a beautiful new melody for your choir. The plaintive melody creates an arrangement that builds to a victorious statement of the eventual triumph over death that accompanied Christ's sacrifice, then returns to the subdued feel of the opening question. This intimate text reminds us of the experience of the cross and the price paid by Christ for our salvation."
- J.W. Pepper
Gathered in the Upper Room
"This Maundy Thursday anthem incorporates the melodic theme of Faure's Pavane to great success. The text entwines scripture with commentary about the events of that holy day. There is an optional cello part available which greatly adds to the overall success of the piece."
- J.W. Pepper
Gethsemane Prayer
"Combining profound lyrics with the beloved melody, this dramatic anthem depicts the emotional moments in the Garden of Gethsemane on the night before Christ's crucifixion. A lovely countermelody, played by oboe or incorporated into the piano accompaniment, playfully trades phrases with the vocals."
- J.W. Pepper
Roll That Stone Away
"Alive with a good-natured gospel flair, this a cappella anthem will awaken everyone to the joy of Easter. The catchy melody is decorated with interesting vocal interactions giving your singers a moment to shine. This accessible work is great for both small ensembles and full choirs. A winner!"
- J.W. Pepper
So In Love He Came
"Full of rich harmony and textures, So in Love He Came vividly describes Jesus' appearance on the cross, both physically and spiritually. Adapted from Grieg's Holberg Suite, this elegant setting enhances the scripture-based text in a powerful musical meditation."
- J.W. Pepper