Hello Friends & Happy September!
I have (lovingly) nicknamed September the “Uncomfy Prelude Month” as two of the preludes I’ve chosen to share with you this month are outside of what may be expected as our “normal” worship music.
“All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name!” arr. Jean Langlais slated for worship on September 3 is a familiar tune that comes to life painted on the organ with soft, harsh, low, almost unpleasant tonalities of brass accompaniment and a prominent melody line in the pedal. To me, this unusual setting creates a soundscape of chaos and uncertainty throughout the piece while we hear the prominent reminder “All hail the power of Jesus’ name let angels prostrate fall.”
On September 17, Aaron David Miller’s “O Word of God Incarnate” will welcome us into a time of quiet reflection before worship. As I play this piece, I hear fleeting flutes echo the sounds of birds, butterflies, and other flying creatures hovering above the earth while a constant flow of strings brings about the winds and the waters. The melody shines through a pedal line speaking the Word of God in the winds, rivers, and creatures of the air.
I hope you find a moment for thought provoking reflection as you gather for worship, not just on “Uncomfy Prelude Sundays” but every Sunday as you enter our worship space.
Wishing you a Joyful September,
Patrick Marchant, Minister of Music
Last modified: September 11, 2023