Appalachian Nunc Dimittis, by John Cantrell

A soulful setting of the Nunc Dimittis, this piece evokes the same feeling of sacredness found in the majestic mountains and broad meadows of Appalachia. Juxtaposing freely delivered solo lines with declarative homophonic responses from the choir, the piece caputres folk-like stylistic and structural elements from traditional Appalachian church music to create a work equally appropriate in the concert hall or for a religious service. We recommend this piece for community and church choirs interested in this distinctly American musical tradition.
Audio credit: St. Michael's Choir, NYC
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Lyrics:
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy word.
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
To be a light to lighten the Gentiles and to be the glory of thy people Israel.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end.
Amen.