HAIL SMILING MORN

"Hail Smiling Morn" is a classic English glee by Reginald Spofforth that has earned a beloved place in the folders of many choral groups. It is a bright, energetic piece that perfectly captures the feeling of a new day breaking, making it a joy to sing and hear.

In the choir loft, we often pull this out as a spirited warm-up or a lively concert opener. The way the voices cascade and echo each other—especially when the lower parts chase the sopranos on phrases like "darkness flies away"—wakes up the singers and the audience alike. It requires crisp diction and a light, buoyant tone to navigate the lively tempo and the overlapping vocal entries without losing the melody.

Singing this piece is simply fun. The repeated, joyful "hails" at the end bring a natural smile to everyone's face, matching the cheerful text. It is one of those secular choral works that celebrates the simple beauty of nature and the morning sun, leaving both the choir and the listeners energized for whatever comes next.