Carl Fischer Music
CM8753, SAB, $2.75
Date released: 2002

“Let There Be Peace on Earth” has long been a favorite of church, community, and school choirs across this country. Hayes has breathed new life into this classic with this moving arrangement. Using his trademark lush harmonies and his creative piano accompaniment, he has painted a musical portrait that is truly inspirational and perfect for performance in worship settings or school and community concerts. From the first few measures of the introduction, which quotes Sibelius’ “Finlandia”, a tone of reverence and dignity is heard. The arrangement gradually builds in strength and intensity, paying close attention to the beauty of the text. A half-step modulation in the 2nd verse moves to the climactic ending, which echoes the phrase, “Let there be peace!” This is truly a song for our time.