Lindsborg Press
797242196096; Distributed by J. W. Pepper, #9509408
SATB with baritone solo, soprano solo, $4.25
Date released: 2002

Harmonic colors abound in this anthem, another of Mark Hayes’ settings of scripture: the love chapter, I Corinthians 13. The piece opens in G minor with the choir providing vocal accompaniment beneath two soloists who sing the truth that having everything without love is actually having nothing at all. The chorus then joins them as the piece moves to the G major refrain, richly harmonized for 4- to 6-part homophony. The next section provides contrast in meter, tempo and vocal treatment. Dance-like, it is in 3/4 time that is conducted in one and presents the melody alternated between ladies and men. First, each part is in unison and then parts are added, and the dynamic level builds to the powerful assertion that “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things!” Finally, comes a grand return of the refrain, softening as the choir repeats with awe the word “love” in beautiful harmony – very effective! Moderately difficult because of the 6- to 8-part divisi throughout, this piece is well within reach of good adult church choirs and would fit almost any type of service.