SirenSong-Music.com

BRONWYNEDWARDS

musical catalyst | composer | pianist

Return to home page >>>

Posted February 16, 2017

Choral - sacred >>>

The Gift (Wonder Cantata)

Video currently unavailable

About "The Gift"

The Wonder Cantata was composed in 2011 and performed by the Chancel Choir, Fauntleroy Church UCC at the choir's Christmas concert. The lyrics for the Cantata were developed by composer Bronwyn Edwards (Music Director at Fauntleroy Church) after a conversation about the wonder of Christmas with the then-Senior Pastor at Fauntleroy Church, Reverend David Kratz and chorister Greg Dirks.

Following are Reverend Kratz's reflections, which inspired the ninth song of the Cantata, entitled "The Gift."

There is wonder in the exchange of joy through gift-giving. We often refer to God as giving us the gift of Christ at Christmas. And the wise men giving a completely unusable gift -- in fact giving the gift fit for a king. Our giving and sharing of love for each other sets our anticipation apart from the seasonal commercialism.

These reflections were part of the performance, helping the listener to better understand the concepts behind the music.

SS-201610-WC09
For SSAATTBB and piano
Music and lyrics by Bronwyn Edwards

THE WONDER CANTATA

1. The Wonder
2. Unexpected, Unpredictable
3. The Promise
4. The Power
5. Home / inc. O Come All Ye Faithful
6. The Wonderful Story
7. Wonderful Counselor
8. WonderLight
9. The Gift
10. Finale: Home, a Place of Wonder / inc. O Come, All Ye Faithful

Lyrics

by Bronwyn Edwards

We feel the Wonder as we exchange our joy through gifts to delight and amaze.
But no greater gift could you give to me than the way you love and watch over me.

Babe in the manger, star in the sky, shepherds and wise men led by the Light,
No greater gift is ours to receive than the infant King and the Prince of Peace.

God is love and dwells within us, sent us the Light and peace He brings us,
The greatest gift from God above, born this Christmas in wondrous love.

God is love and dwells within us, sent us the Light and peace He brings us,
The greatest gift from God above, born this Christmas in wondrous love.

Gold and myrrh and frankincense, gifts of the Magi, bestowed on the Prince.
Gifts to the poor and our neighbors in need, gifts from the heart, given unselfishly,
Great are the gifts that God has giv'n, but no greater gift than God's loving Son.

Available at www.jwpepper.com as printed copies or digital download.

Partial download: "The Gift" (cover + 4 pages) in PDF format

Comments: