HOLY

When we open a rehearsal with a piece like James Varrick - Armaah’s "HOLY," the room immediately shifts. This isn't the standard liturgical Sanctus from the Mass, but rather a majestic choral setting of Reginald Heber’s beloved Trinity hymn. It carries that same profound reverence, drawing the choir into a space of awe right from the opening chords.

The arrangement does something wonderful with the voices. After the full choir proclaims God's majesty across heaven and earth, the texture suddenly thins out. The tenors and basses step forward alone to sing "Only thou art Holy, there is none beside thee," creating a moment of quiet, grounded devotion. The sopranos and altos then answer from above, soaring in with "Perfect in pow'r, in love and purity." It feels like a conversation between earth and heaven.

Everything converges in the final section. The entire choir unites to repeat "All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea," building in intensity with each repetition. It is a fantastic choice for Trinity Sunday or as a powerful anthem of praise during a festive Mass, giving both the singers and the congregation a glimpse of that eternal, unceasing worship.