This edition was prepared by Douglas Walczak — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
As it began to dawn
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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As it began to dawn by Frederick Flaxington Harker — Lyrics
Matthew 28: 16
1. As it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4. And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
Shout, ye seraphs; angels, raise
Your eternal song of praise;
Let the earth's remotest bound
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About As it began to dawn
Frederick Flaxington Harker's setting of As it began to dawn is a sacred anthem for SATB choir, drawing its text from the Gospel of Matthew. The music captures the profound mystery and awe of the Resurrection morning as described in the biblical account. Harker's setting emphasizes the dramatic events of the earthquake and the angel's powerful yet reassuring presence, culminating in the triumphant declaration that Christ is risen. The choir's dynamic range and harmonic language are employed to convey both the fear of the Roman guards and the dawning hope offered to Mary Magdalene and the other Mary. This is a stirring musical reflection on one of Christianity's central events.
