Hinshaw Music
HMC1576, SATB, $2.55
Date released: 1997
HMC2522, SATB, $2.55
Date released: 2017

NOTE: These are identical pieces; one was a 25th anniversary edition with a different cover.

Commissioned by the Federation of American Baptist Musicians in memory of esteemed publisher and friend, Don Hinshaw, this stirring anthem features an outstanding text by John Parker. The first section is from Ecclesiastes, and explores the transience and vanity of life as expressed by Solomon. Hayes has set this section in a lyrical, haunting minor mode that evokes a sense of longing and emptiness. As the phrase, “All is empty, all is vain” lingers in the air, the choir softly but confidently answers the question with “To love our God is the reason we live, to love our God – the highest call.” Hayes has created a stirring anthem which continues to build slowly and steadily to a dramatic conclusion, employing diverse modulations and the use of polyphonic writing. Perfect for special services of dedication as well as general worship, this anthem will push your choir to sing with great artistry and musicality.