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BRONWYNEDWARDS

musical catalyst | composer | pianist

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Updated Sunday, October 1, 2017

Choral - sacred >>>

Unexpected, Unpredictable (Wonder Cantata)

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About "Unexpected, Unpredictable"

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 second song of the Cantata, entitled "Unexpected, Unpredictable."

Generations waited and yearned for God to come into the world and restore the Kingdom of God on earth. They may have expected the culmination of history. Or the end of the world. None could have anticipated the events as they occurred. It was all so unexpected -- the prophet, John the Baptist, born to aged parents; God's son Jesus Christ, born of a virgin. When we read the Bible, the story of Christ's humble birth awakens our hope. We experience Wonder; our minds "open out" -- we become vulnerable to the possible. And rather than being constrained by what we think the limits are, we allow a process that's volatile to happen. And when it happens, it's wonderful!

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

SS-201608-WC02
For SATB, piano and 2 flutes
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

Generations waited for God to come down on Earth as the prophets foretold
We reflect with wonder on Christ's humble birth but none could predict how events would unfold
Unexpected! Unpredictable! But with God all things are possible.
To the story may we, vulnerable, open our hearts in wonder.

Generations yearned, anticipated the Prince of Peace on Earth to conquer death.
Descended truly from the line of David, now the mighty Word has become flesh!
Unexpected! Unpredictable! But with God all things are possible.
To the story may we, vulnerable, open our hearts in wonder.

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

Partial download: "Unexpected, Unpredictable"
(cover + 4 pages) in PDF format

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