Concerto on O God, Beyond All Praising

"O God, Beyond All Praising" is one of the most majestic hymns sung in Catholic parishes and cathedrals today. Set to Gustav Holst’s sweeping "Thaxted" melody (originally from his orchestral suite The Planets), the music carries a profound sense of awe and reverence. Michael Perry’s text perfectly matches this grandeur, moving from a declaration of God's amazing love to a quiet reflection on earthly mortality, before culminating in a joyful promise to serve the Lord through all of life's sorrows and triumphs.

This particular score is a solfa transcription of Richard Proulx’s famous concertato arrangement. It opens with everyone singing in unison, allowing the congregation to establish the powerful melody. The second verse shifts to a dedicated choir-only section, offering a moment of choral reflection on the "flower of earthly splendor." Finally, the piece builds to a glorious climax where a soaring soprano descant floats above the main melody, creating a thrilling sound for the choir loft and the pews alike. It is a magnificent choice for a festive Entrance or Recessional, especially on major feast days.