Light the World (2017)

For SATB Chorus a cappella

Text: Robert Bode

Duration: 3:30 minutes

Commission: Te Deum Chamber Choir

Premiere: Te Deum Chamber Choir, Matthew Shepherd, Conductor

November 11, 2017, Kansas City

 

Program Note: “Light the World” was commissioned by Te Deum, Matthew Christopher Shepard, conductor, for the 10th Anniversary Season in Kansas City, Missouri. Robert Bode wrote this beautiful poem for the occasion, which made composing this blessing to commemorate Te Deum’s anniversary an even greater honor for me.

 

A Prayer for Blessing

in honor of Te Deum’s 10th anniversary season

 

May the Mother in us comfort us

And the Father in us protect us;

May the Daughter in us bring us Hope

And the Son within us increase our Joy.

 

May the Dancer in us move us

And the Poet inspire our Song.

May the Explorer embolden us

And the Artist honor the Beauty that holds us.

 

May we all be Creators and Priests and Nurses and Heroes,

And may our Song lift beyond these walls

To light the world.

 

Robert Bode, Kansas City, February, 2017