All Creatures (From Geistliche Kirkengesaeng)

The spinning, driving energy of this setting of the hymn tune "Lasst uns erfreuen" makes the music well suited for use as an anthem, postlude or festival piece. The opening burst of sound sets the tone for the statement of the melody to come, building on the four-note patterns that form the "alleluias" until the central tonality is reached. The tune then moves boldly ahead, supported by a foundation of alternating whole note and half note chords and woven together by a continuous quarter note motif taken from another hymn. The work then closes with a recapitulation of the opening, cadencing into a final tower of sound. Performers will be challenged by extensive use of four-in-hand passages, and audiences will be enthralled. Also available from Genesis Press (GP 1015 ).