This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Ashham
Staff Notation • Sacred
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATB · Barry Johnston
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Ashham by William Billings — Lyrics
Thou whom my soul admires above
All earthly joy and earthly love,
Tell me, dear Shepherd, let me know,
Where do Thy sweetest pastures grow?
Where is the shadow of that rock
That from the sun defends Thy flock?
Fain would I feed among Thy sheep
Among them rest, among them sleep.
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About Ashham
William Billings crafts a four-part setting for SATB voices in this English sacred song. The music opens with an immediate, direct address, establishing a devotional mood. The contrapuntal writing allows the voices to interact, sometimes in imitation, sometimes in rich harmony, creating a sense of communal prayer. The text expresses a profound yearning for spiritual connection, likening the soul's desire to a flock seeking its shepherd. It speaks of admiration for divine love, a longing for divine guidance, and a desire to remain ever faithful, finding solace and sustenance in the 'sweetest pastures' of God's presence. The music reflects the text's sincerity and the deep personal devotion it conveys.
