Brightest and best

This setting of the famous hymn words by Reginald Heber, a particularly suitable text for Epiphany, was written in memory of Benjamin Hutto, Director of Music at St John’s, LaFayette Square, Washington DC. It received its premiere during the churches bicentennial year in March 2016. Todd’s characteristic close harmonies and memorable melodies pervade this attractive carol, which is highly approachable for intermediate choirs. A tender unison treatment of the first verse leads to four-part harmony and a descant in successive verses, followed by a large climax, key change and introduction of an optional organ part for the final verse, before a calm, meditative ending. All this combines to create a showstopper of a carol which will delight audiences and congregations.