Concerto on O God, Beyond All Praising

When we pull out "O God, Beyond All Praising," there is an immediate shift in the choir loft. Set to the sweeping Thaxted melody by Gustav Holst, this arrangement by Richard Proulx elevates a beloved hymn into a soaring anthem of thanksgiving. It is the kind of piece that demands our full breath and attention, building from a unison declaration of worship into rich, layered choral harmony.

The text by Michael Perry moves from awe at God's endless blessings to a profound reflection on Christ's victory over death. In the second section, where the choir sings alone, we are reminded that while earthly splendor fades, the eternal seed planted by Christ brings us final victory. This makes it a powerful choice for Eastertide, Christ the King, or any grand festive Mass where the liturgy calls for a triumphant song of praise.

By the time we reach the final verse, the congregation joins back in while the sopranos float above with a soaring descant. Singing "and make a joyful duty our sacrifice of praise" feels like a true offering. It leaves the congregation uplifted and ready to carry that joy out into the world, making it an unforgettable recessional or entrance hymn for a major feast day.