Beckenhorst Press
BP1838, SATB, $2.50
Date released: 2008

Based on Psalm 1:1-3, this serene, flowing anthem states, “Blessed are the ones who delight in the law of the Lord…They are like a tree planted by the water.” Hayes has crafted an inspired composition in ABA form with beautiful polyphonic writing and lyrical lines that flow from one voice part to the other. The B  section ventures from the G Major tonality of Section A into B minor with a moving triplet figure in the piano accompaniment and more harmonic development which reaches an inspired climactic moment. The piece ends as it starts, quietly stating the scriptural promise, “Blessed are the ones who delight in the law of the Lord.” What makes this even more special is the optional string quartet and oboe accompaniment.