• Anthem: Angelic Invitation       
• Text Source: Shaker, adapted
• Tune Source: Shaker
• Worship Use: Christmas
• Vocal Part(s):  Unison, with opt. 2nd pt., in canon            
• Vocal Range: d’e’
• Key: G major
• Meter: 2/4
• Accompanying Instruments: Violoncello and piano (or harp)

Target Age Group: Grades 3-6 (with option of K-2 joining in singing the refrain)

Description: Angelic Invitation is a spirited, easily remembered anthem culminating in a  canonical refrain.  One of six Shaker source anthems offered in the Viva  Voce 2011-2012 curriculum, this anthem provides an opportunity for younger children to join with the older children on the refrain. 

Anthem Warm-Ups

•  bars 5-6: “singing ‘Alleluia’ ” - intervallic tuning: ascending minor 3rd, descending perfect 4th, ascending major  2nd, descending major 3rd 
•  bars 29-41: intervallic tuning of canonical refrain

Teaching Points

•  Rhythm/Meter: Executing exact performance of dotted 8th note/16th note rhythm patterns; executing a dance-like feel in 2/4, not over-emphasizing the second beat of each bar.
• Intervallic Tuning: Tuning melodic ascending and descending fourths and tuning harmonic intervals between the two parts of the canonical refrain.
• Music History: Learning about early Shaker tunes and texts.
• Music History/Style Exploration: Listening to/watching a variety of choral performances of Shaker music.