Northern Spire
the music of Philip Spaeth
Radiant Light
Hymn for the Faithful Departed
for Cantor, Choir, Assembly, and Organ (2014)
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premiered November 2 (All Souls Day), 2014
The Church of St. Peter
Saratoga Springs, NY
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For funerals and other services at which the deceased are commemorated
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Includes a verse tone to pray for the deceased by name
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About Radiant Light:
Radiant Light (2014) is intended as an Introit hymn for Masses for the Dead, i.e. Funeral Masses, All Souls' Day Mass, or Memorial liturgies, but may find other uses within the context of praying for the dead. The Refrain text is inspired by the Requiem Aeternam, the Latin Introit for Masses for the Dead, and, indeed, the Refrain melody is even loosely based on the Latin chant most often associated with this Introit. That said, the Refrain is very easily learned and sung by the Assembly. The verse texts are based on Scripture, taking their cues from Psalm 65:2-5, Matthew 11:28-30, and Wisdom 3:1, 9, all of which are texts associated with prayers for the dead.
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In addition, the score contains a verse tone by which those deceased for whom we pray can be commemorated by name in song, occasionally returning to the Refrain so that the Assembly may add their assent to this prayer.
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This piece would make a welcome and comforting addition to any parish's funeral or memorial service repertoire, in any Christian denomination.
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Click on the title page image above to view a sample score.
Performance History
November 2 (All Souls Day), 2014
world premiere
The Church of St. Peter, Saratoga Springs, NY
Philip Spaeth, Music Director
Programmed for funeral Masses and other memorial services since 2014
The Church of St. Peter, Saratoga Springs, NY
Philip Spaeth, Music Director