Will Todd: Every Stone Shall Cry  

  
Will Todd, born in 1970, is forging a strong reputation for himself as a composer who is equally at ease in opera, oratorio, church music and jazz. His style is instantly accessible and lastingly memorable. He spent his formative years steeped in both jazz and the English choral tradition so in his choral music he is able to juxtapose strong rhythmic drive and rich harmonies with exquisitely lyrical vocal lines. 'Every Stone Shall Cry' sets words by Richard Wilbur and is very energetic. The jazzy block chords and added 9th harmony reflect the joy of the Christmas message. The syncopated choir rhythms also make the text bounce along.