This edition was prepared by James Wetzel — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Eternal Father, Op.135, No. 2
Staff Notation • Sacred, Motets
Preview
0
0
2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SSATBB · Diana Thompson
Preview
Subscribed as
Want Sunday picks sent to another address too?
Free weekly email
Your choir should not be left out in what's trending
Sunday mass selections, psalms, and trending songs in your area — straight to your inbox.
Eternal Father, Op.135, No. 2 by Charles Villiers Stanford — Lyrics
Eternal Father, who didst all create,
In whom we live, and to whose bosom move,
To all men be thy name known, which is Love,
Till its loud praises sound at heaven's high gate.
Perfect thy kingdom in our passing state,
That here on earth thou may'st as well approve
Our service as thou ownest theirs above,
Whose joy we echo and in pain await.
Read full lyrics
About Eternal Father, Op.135, No. 2
Charles Villiers Stanford’s setting of Eternal Father is a profound motet for unaccompanied double choir, SSATBB. Written in English, it is suitable for services of reflection or for a concert setting. The text, a prayer for divine guidance and protection, draws parallels between earthly struggles and heavenly peace. Stanford’s music masterfully conveys the awe and supplication of the words, building from moments of intimate devotion to powerful, expansive affirmations. The devotional nature of the text, praying for daily sustenance and forgiveness, is matched by the rich, sonorous writing for the eight voices. This sacred work offers a significant and moving challenge for an experienced choir.
