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Eric William Barnum

A conductor and composer, Eric William Barnum continues to passionately seek new ground in the choral field. Working with choirs of all kinds, his collaborative leitmotif endeavors to provide intensely meaningful experiences for singers and audiences. Barnum is currently the Director of Choral Activities at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa and previously, the Director...

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Eric William Barnum

What is this light?

Name: What is this light?
SKU: EWB-1043
Availability: InStock

Eric William Barnum

A joyful and heartfelt piece honoring the incarnation. Perfect for the holiday season.

Choral

mixed choir

a cappella

Difficulty: 4

Duration: 3-5 min.

EWB-1043

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SATB a cappella

Set to a rich and meaningful lyric spun by Charles Anthony Silvestri, “What is this light?” is filled with vibrant colors, tuneful lines, and rich harmonies. Commissioned by Tracy Ressiguie and Staley High School, this text and tune speak to feelings of the sacred holiday season in both a humble and expansive way, with chords and stylings that hint to the classic midwest American choral tradition. It is a beautiful meditation on the wondrous paradox of the concept of incarnation and eternal love.

Text

What is this light that enlightens our darkness?
What is this joy that enjoins us to love?
How can infinity fit in such limits?
How can below welcome Heaven above?

How can the power that opened the heavens,
Founded the earth and scattered the stars,
How can the author of all of creation
Deign to abide where we, miserable, are?

What shall we do to prepare for his coming,
When all of our worship, our music, our arts
Fail, insufficient, to honor his glory?
All we need do is to open our hearts.

— Charles Anthony Silvestri

$1.50 per licensed PDF