Exaltation Publications
10/3340L, SATB divisi, $3.20
Date Released: 2005

Bright, bold and brassy describes this Christmas anthem in 6/8 time. Hayes uses both Latin and English texts to herald Christ’s birth. The fanfare style introduction starts with the basses, building in a pyramid effect to include all voice parts. The primary melody is traded between each voice part and has an engaging, lilting feel. The chorus virtually explodes into a triumphant “Gloria in Excelsis Deo” in the bright key of A major. This anthem features independent, yet accessible polyphonic writing and some divisi. If you’re looking for a tour de force that will challenge your choir and inspire your listener, this is it. It’s a perfect opener or closer for your Christmas or holiday concert and suitable for good church, community or collegiate choirs