Surely He hath borne...

This solemn choral piece draws its text directly from the prophet Isaiah, bringing a heavy and reflective mood to the choir loft. The opening words immediately set a tone of reverence, making it a powerful choice for choirs to sing during the Lenten season or Good Friday services. It asks the singers and the congregation to sit with the weight of the Passion and the sacrifice of the cross.

Written out here in four-part solfa notation, the arrangement requires the choir to move together through the gravity of the lyrics. As the voices sing of His wounds and the "chastisement of our peace," the harmony parts echo and support one another. It is the kind of piece that demands careful attention to dynamics and phrasing in rehearsal, ensuring the deep sorrow and ultimate grace of the words are truly felt by everyone in the pews.