“Gaelic Benediction” Benediction response for SAB voices and piano, with opt. C instrument; words traditional Gaelic; music by Jerry Ulrich.
These traditional words are a beautiful, heart felt sending forth. The SAB setting gives opportunity for use with small to large ensembles. Unison women open the anthem quickly dividing and joined by the men. The melody rests in the soprano part with lower voices pulsing chord changes. Voices align rhythmically on the final page with fermati and ritardando adding to the emotional close.
A fluid piano accompaniment glides through the anthem supporting the voices, defining harmonic structures and maintaining a rhythmic flow. Parts are often contained with the accompaniment although not always doubled. The optional C instrument may be played on flute, oboe, violin, or other similar instrument. A separate instrumental part is included in the score. The instrumental part is simple and may be played by a high school student. Youth and adults will enjoy this anthem. But, look at the bass part which drops to a low G. Younger youth choir members, including your tenors, will not have this range available to them. Do not ask them to sing this low.
Performance options include singing this as written or as a solo by following the soprano line. The C instrument part is optional.
Appropriate services: benediction for general worship; weddings; or other services.
Age Level 6-8
Difficulty of vocal parts 4
Difficulty of accompaniment 6
