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Use: Good Friday
Required Resources: SATB Choir, cantor
Optional Resources: congregation
Language: English and Greek
The Sacramentary encourages the singing of The Reproaches during the Veneration of the Cross on Good Friday.
This is a traditional text based on Old Testament prophetic passages (see Micah 6:3-4) and the Trisagion (Agios o Theos).
Also called Improperia, it begins, "My people, what have I done to you..."
In this text the crucified Christ recalls God's mighty acts for the salvation of mankind and reproaches man for his unfaithfulness.
The setting by James Morrison uses a cantor to sing the twelve verses (e.g. "I led you out of Egypt, from slavery to freedom, but you led your Savior to the Cross."), using a recurring tone.
An SATB choir sings two Antiphons:
Antiphon 1
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you?
Answer me!
and
Antiphon 2
Agios o Theos.
Holy is God
Agios ischyros.
Holy and strong.
Agios athanatos eleison imas.
Holy immortal One, have mercy on us.
The congregation may join in singing the soprano line for Antiphon 1.
Antiphon 2 is reserved for the choir, and is sung only three times [pronunciation for the Greek text is included within the octavo].
In traditional manner, this setting is sung a cappella, respecting an ancient practice of using no accompaniment whatsoever on Good Friday.
The musical tone for the verses is simple and effective.
The harmonic writing for choir is beautiful, noble and decidely "proper."
You will surely be pleased with this liturgical setting.
James Morrison has held positions as organist and choir director at a variety of churches.
His musical output includes anthems, motets, liturgical settings, free hymn-tune accompaniments and descants, plainsong editions, solo songs, and compositions for organ and instruments.
He is also certified as a trainer for the Leadership Program for Musicians Serving Small Congregations, a program which provides training for persons charged with meeting the musical needs of smaller congregations.
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