Psalmfest: Vocal score

Compiled as it is from originally disparate elements, Psalmfest hangs together as a unity remarkably well. This is due partly to selection of material and judicious orchestration - always a Rutter strong point - and partly to the composer's tendency to respond to broadly similar texts in similar ways . . . Of the newly-composed material, the concluding 'O praise the Lord of heaven' (Psalm 148) takes the palm for its sparkling rhythms and effective antiphonal use of double choir . . . The choral parts in Psalmfest are well within the means of any moderately competent choir . . . I see no reason why Psalmfest should not become a popular work with choirs, choral societies and audiences. (Simon Mold, Choir and Organ, July 98)

for soprano and tenor soloists and SATB choir, with keyboard or chamber ensemble or orchestra The nine movements form a single choral work comprising seven pieces previously published separately and two new movements. A broad range of emotions all find their place with rich and varied musical settings. Instrumental material and vocal scores are available on hire.