for SATB (with divisions) and piano or orchestra Thornett's setting of this Epiphany text, also known as 'Brightest and best', makes effective use of arching melodies and a variety of choral textures. The piece builds to a dramatic final verse with a soprano/tenor descant, before a gentle ending. The accompaniment features bell effects and quotations of Gruber's famous 'Silent night' melody. For choirs who are low on male numbers, there are options for omitting tenor and bass divisi parts.

About the Author
Gordon Thornett studied composition at Manchester University with Humphrey Procter-Gregg, and briefly with Herbert Howells, during his Diploma in Education year in London. He taught music in London, before moving to Birmingham to pursue a career in special education and music therapy. He has composed and arranged several pieces for school and church choirs. His pieces have been performed by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and CBSO Chorus (of which he is a longstanding member), the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra, and the Northern Sinfonia and Chorus.


Book Information
ISBN 9780193528000
Author Gordon Thornett
Page Count 12
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 26g
Dimensions(mm) 254mm * 180mm * 1mm