Ye Watchers, and Ye Holy Ones
This classic anthem is based on the tune Lasst uns Erfreuen. SSAATTBB, organ, with optional brass quintet (2 Trumpets in B-flat, Horn in F, Trombone, Tuba). Grand and celebratory and not difficult. Great for multiple choirs or any kind of choir festival. Although the original text for this anthem is from Psalm 148 (Lord, Who Hast Made Thee For Thine Own), and is offered here as well, this text makes this a wonderful piece for All Saint's Day, any named saint day, Advent, or just a general celebration.
The recording here uses the original text, but you get the idea! Your choir and congregation will love this!
Ye watchers and ye holy ones,
Bright seraphs, cherubim and thrones,
Raise the glad strain, Alleluia!
Cry out, dominions, princedoms, powers,
Virtues, archangels, angels’ choirs: Alleluia!
More glorious than the seraphim,
Lead their praises, Alleluia!
Thou bearer of th’eternal Word,
Most gracious, magnify the Lord. Alleluia!
Ye patriarchs and prophets blest,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Ye holy twelve, ye martyrs strong,
All saints triumphant, raise the song. Alleluia!
Supernal anthems echoing,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
to God the Father, God the Son,
And God the Spirit, Three in One. Alleluia!