Too splendid for speech, but ripe for a song

for SATB and organ This well-known tune, attributed to William Croft, has been re-harmonized by Frederick Swann. Set to the text of a Thomas Troeger hymn which ponders the relationship between song and worship to God, this anthem is beautiful and accessible, suitable for any church choir. During the last verse of this inclusive and participatory anthem, the congregation is invited to sing with the choir ad libitum, which makes for an exciting and effective ending at fortissimo.