This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Barre
Staff Notation • Sacred
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Barre by William Billings — Lyrics
How glorious is our heavenly King,
Who reigns above the sky!
How shall a child presume to sing
His dreadful majesty?
How great His power is none can tell,
Nor think how large His grace;
Not men below, nor saints that dwell
On high before His face.
Not angels that stand round the Lord
Can search His secret will;
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About Barre
William Billings' Barre is a sacred setting for SATB choir, sung in English. The text expresses profound awe at the majesty of God, contrasting His infinite power and grace with the humble offerings of mortals. It acknowledges that even angels cannot fully comprehend His will, yet they ceaselessly praise Him. The piece moves from this contemplation of divine greatness to a personal resolution to join the heavenly host in song, even with a 'feeble voice,' trusting that the eternal God will accept the sincere praise of His creation. It is a reflection on the immensity of God and the earnest desire of the faithful to participate in His eternal glory.
