Allan Robert Petker: Praise Ye the Lord: Mixed Choir a Cappella: Vocal Score

Here is a rebel piece of music that combines traditional sacred music with praise music. Beginning with the organ and a stately choir the text from II Chronicles 7:15-16 honors when God is with us in our sacred space. A praiseband feel takes over and introduces a simple song (sung by children or praise singers). Next thing you know the choir and organ bring in two traditional hymns (Come Thou Fount and Joyful Joyful) that all fit together. God istruly in this house for all people of all musical styles.

Based on Psalm 98:1-4 this ancient psalm of praise is redressed in modern classical sounds. Intertwined is the canonic melody from 19th century hymn-writer Lowell Mason O Music. The combination honors music as the educational value Mason professed along with praise to God for skillful singing the psalmist scribed. A great festival piece of general praise optional handbell choir and children's choir add to the possibilities.

Exuberance and joy fill this work and its dramatic call to praise. A triumphant nuematic alleluia melody alternates between the voices giving the song a thorough and continuous theme of praise. Available separately: SATB SAB Brass Parts.

Uses: PraiseScripture: Psalm 150Power strength and majesty are the words that best describe this setting of Psalm 150. Written for organ and optional brass the opening builds to the choir's entry.A unison choral statement ensues that is noble and direct. Following a softer middle section the piece returns to the opening material to a glorious conclusion.

This anthem begins softly and sounds almost like a benediction. But the psalmist's emphasis was on praise and the music opens to a rousing center section. Returning to the opening motif the music ends in a warm and glorious alleluia amen.

From Psalm 27 comes a message of faith and hope. The musical writing is a bit challenging but well worth the effort. The flute adds a tremendous dimension not typical of obbligatos. A classical fugal-type middle section isrhythmic and festive. The concluding lines of praise are dynamically fulfilling. Available: SATB Flute Part.

The Psalms have inspired a text of praise and a few choice alternate words proclaim the victory of Easter. Originally set for 2-part this anthem has been a festival favorite for years. The SATB setting seems even moreappropriate. Excellent for Easter and festival days. Available: SATB 2-Part Trumpet Parts.

The Psalms have inspired a text of praise and a few choice alternate words proclaim the victory of Easter. Originally set for 2-part this anthem has been a festival favorite for years. The SATB setting seems even moreappropriate. Excellent for Easter and festival days. Available: SATB 2-Part Trumpet Parts.