Fanfare Prelude On “ Laudate Dominum ”

Grade Level 1

Year: 2017

Type: Fanfare Prelude

Composer: James Curnow

Program Notes:

Sir Hubert H. Parry’s (1848-1918, eminent English composer) hymn tune “Laudate Dominum,” here is paired with the exuberant text by Henry W. Baker (1821-1877) for this fanfare style paean of praise. The text is most likely based on Psalm 148 and Psalm 150. The uplifting, spiritually challenging, and praise-worthy text is amplified by this majestic melody.

The piece opens with a majestic fanfare that intersperses the two verses presented:

Sing Praise to the Lord! Praise him in the height;

Rejoice in his word, you angels of light.

You heavens adore him by whom you were made,

And worship before him, in brightness arrayed.

Sing praise to the Lord! Thanksgiving and song

To him be out-poured all ages along!

For love in creation, for heaven restored,

For grace of salvation, sing praise to the Lord!

American Instrumental Ensemble Series (AIES/ABES)