For SATB voices a cappella
Music by Ron Hilrip
Words by George Wither (1558–1667)
About the work
Come, O come, our voices raise is a short, joyful anthem setting words by the seventeenth-century English poet George Wither. The text is an invitation to join together in praise: “Come, O come, our voices raise”, calling upon the heart and voice to become instruments in the worship of God.
The simplicity and directness of Wither’s words are matched by music which is unmistakably communal in character. This is music intended to bring voices together rather than to create an elaborate narrative.
The music
Marked Maestoso, the anthem begins with a confident proclamation from the choir. The opening phrase is presented with a strong rhythmic profile, while the voices combine to create a rich, compact harmonic texture.
The repeated invitation “Come, come, O come” gives the music its principal motif, appearing several times as the anthem develops. The words “our voices raise” are treated with particular emphasis, reinforcing the central idea of collective musical praise.
A concise and uplifting anthem whose simple message is also its strength: an invitation for voices, hearts and the whole community to join together in praise.
Phil Orrin 