Hail, gladdening Light
SATB | Duration c. 2'30"
Hail, gladdening Light was commissioned by The Reid Consort of central Scotland (Cole Bendall, conductor) for premiere performance at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh on the 19th of May, 2018. This piece sets a portion of the Greek Christian hymn Phos Hilaron as translated by John Keble, the same text set by Charles Wood in his timeless piece of the same name. It is intended as a concert opener; rhythmic, and with a great degree of dynamic contrast to complement the natural rise and fall of Keble’s words.
Hail, gladdening Light, of His pure glory poured
Who is the immortal Father, heavenly, blest,
Holiest of Holies, Jesus Christ our Lord!
Now we are come to the sun’s hour of rest;
The lights of evening round us shine;
We hymn the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit divine!
Worthiest art Thou at all times to be sung
With undefiled tongue,
Son of our God, Giver of life, alone:
Therefore in all the world Thy glories, Lord, they own.
- John Keble (1792 – 1866)