Wedding Song

nuptial entrance antiphon, adapted by James MacMillan (E), Gloria Patri (E), 'Lassie, wad ye loe me?' (trad Scots)

Choral level of difficulty: 1 (5 greatest)

This is a highly effective wedding anthem which, like Sing Joyfully, starts with a lively organ introduction. The words are taken from the Nuptial Entrance antiphon which begins ‘May the God of Israel join you together’ – which the choir sings with zest and joy! The second half of the piece quietens as the text reflects ‘Blessed are all they that fear the Lord and walk in his ways’. But perhaps the loveliest touch of all is MacMillan’s wonderful idea of bringing in ‘as if far away’ a lovely Scots traditional phrase ‘Lassie, wad ye loe me?’ before the Gloria begins and then beautifully ending the anthem. It is really touching. There is a small amount of division within the alto and tenor parts, but nothing remotely problematical for the average choir.

Repertoire Note by Paul Spicer