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Rejoice in the Lord Alway - Henry Purcell

(also known as the Bell Anthem)

sung by the dwsChorale with the Synful orchestra

Download mp3

This verse anthem for alto, tenor and bass solos and SATB choir derives its nickname "Bell Anthem" from the downward scales part at the beginning, which are somewhat reminiscent of peals of bells.

Although it was originally written with organ accompaniment I thought it would be rather interesting to use strings with a little flute and oboe colouring from time to time. I have kept all the suggested "symphonies" (i.e. the orchestral interludes) except that I have not repeated the very first one, and I have also added one or two cheeky decorations but, of course, "all in the best possible taste".

Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say rejoice.

Let your moderation be known unto all men.

The Lord is at hand.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving,

let your requests be made known unto God.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ our Lord.

taken from Paul's letter to the Philippians 4 vv. 4-7

(There are other settings of these words,

in particular an anonymous a-cappella version, attributed sometimes to Redford,

which is quite fun. My recording of this is now available on CDBaby)