Joseph M. Martin: The Light Before Christmas: Mixed Choir

Written especially for older elementary choirs and younger youth choirs (grades 4-8) The Light Before Christmas celebrates Advent's joyful anticipation of Christ's birth. The five candles of the Advent wreath provide thecentral focus for this service of light that culminates in the lighting of the Christ candle and the arrival of Christmas. Highlighting Advent's messages of hope peace joy and love this unique work may be presented as a fullmusical or individual songs can be performed as featured anthems during the Advent/Christmas season. New songs familiar carols and thoughtful narratives join together to create a truly memorable worship experience filled withthe expectation of Christ's coming and the celebration of His birth. A full line of support products is also available that make the learning process and presentation a breeze. Performance Time: 25 minutes. Songs include:The Wonder of Advent; Hope Is Like a Candle; A Prayer for Peace; Sing for Joy Children of Light; Look to the Light; An Echo Carol of Praise.

Incredible poetry. Beautiful music. The talents of J. Paul Williams and Joseph Martin are combined once again to create the lovely and profound God Chose Us. The wonderfully picturesque images of Williams' text examine theawesome wonders of creation and the power of the Almighty. But before all of that before the very foundation of the earth was laid before God said “Let there be light!” – we had been chosen to be His children.Think about that. It is almost unfathomable. God Chose Us – a sermon in song about divine mystery. This thought-provoking anthem must not be missed.

Uses: General Epiphany YouthScripture: I Corinthians 2:12-15; I John 2:20; John 1:3-7Sizzling with a jubilant rhythmic syntax this original sacred choral is unrelenting in its drive and appeal. Themixed meter elements are easily learned and are very natural to the flow of the words that proclaim the attributes of God. A lyrical second theme brings a poetic touch before the spirited opening theme returns and drives theanthem to a festive conclusion. Duration: ca. 2:56.

Uses: General Epiphany Youth Scripture: I Corinthians 2:12-15 - I John 2:20 - John 1:3-7. Sizzling with a jubilant rhythmic syntax this original sacred choral is unrelenting in its drive and appeal. The mixed meter elements are easily learned and are very natural to the flow of the words that proclaim the attributes of God. A lyrical second theme brings a poetic touch before the spirited opening theme returns and drives the anthem to a festive conclusion.