This edition was prepared by Brian Marble — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Before the Heavens Were Spread Abroad
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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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 · Douglas Walczak
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Before the Heavens Were Spread Abroad by Horatio W. Parker — Lyrics
Before the heavens were spread abroad,
From everlasting was the Word;
With God He was, the Word was God,
And must divinely be adored.
The morning stars sang together
and all the sons of God shouted for joy.
And we beheld His glory,
as of the only begotten of the Father full of grace and truth.
The morning stars sang together,
and all the sons of God shouted for joy.
This is He whom seers in old time
Chanted of with one accord;
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About Before the Heavens Were Spread Abroad
Horatio W. Parker's anthem Before the Heavens Were Spread Abroad is a devotional setting of sacred English text, suitable for SATB choirs. The music reflects the grandeur of the opening lines, which draw on biblical imagery of creation and the divine nature of the Word. Parker's composition builds upon the rich tradition of English sacred music, offering a majestic and contemplative experience. The text moves from the eternal pre-existence of the Word to the joyous exclamations of the morning stars and the sons of God, celebrating the glory of the only begotten Son. It culminates in a powerful affirmation of Christ's promised coming and a call for creation to praise its Lord.
