This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Charity
Staff Notation • Sacred, Set pieces
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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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Charity by Samuel Babcock — Lyrics
Had I the tongues of Greeks and Jews,
And nobler speech than angels use,
If love be absent, I am found,
Like tinkling brass, an empty sound.
Were I inspired to preach and tell
All that is done in heaven and hell;
Or could my faith the world remove,
Still I am nothing without love.
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About Charity
Samuel Babcock's setting of Charity sets words that explore the nature and primacy of love. The text, which draws on I Corinthians 13, questions the value of eloquence, faith, knowledge, generosity, and even martyrdom if selfless love is absent. The composer's SATB arrangement is a sacred piece reflecting the profound importance of this theme. Babcock's thoughtful composition ensures that the text's message of love's ultimate significance is conveyed with clarity and conviction. This setting serves as a moving reflection on the core tenets of Christian teaching.
