This edition was prepared by Jonathan Harris — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Hymn to St John the Baptist
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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Hymn to St John the Baptist by Robert Page — Lyrics
The last and greatest Herald of Heaven's King,
Girt with rough skins, hies to the deserts wild,
Among that savage brood the woods forth bring,
Which he than man more harmless found and mild.
His food was locusts, and what there doth spring
With honey that from virgin hives distill'd;
Parch'd body, hollow eyes, some uncouth thing
Made him appear, long since from earth exiled.
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About Hymn to St John the Baptist
Robert Page's Hymn to St John the Baptist opens with a musical evocation of the desert prophet. The SATB voices weave together, depicting the rugged landscape and the solitary figure of John. The English text, a poetic reflection on his life and ministry, describes his asceticism and his powerful call to repentance. Page's setting captures the starkness of the wilderness and the unwavering conviction of the Baptist, building to a climax that echoes his urgent plea. This anthem is a compelling musical portrayal of a pivotal biblical figure.
