Welcome, All Wonders in One Sight!

for SATB double choir and organ
Chilcott's convivial setting of Crashaw's Welcome, all wonders in one sight! opens with a bright and declamatory refrain that proclaims 'welcome!' over a grand, oscillating organ part that is grounded by an inner pedal note. Choral triplets gesture towards a swung rhythm, and jazz-like inflections lead to thrilling cadences on large extended chords. When split into double choir, material is echoed and expanded, further building the texture and sense of excitement at the coming of Jesus.
A contrasting central section features a smooth and flowing choral part in duplets with an energetic and staccato triplet organ line. A strong pulse acts as a foundation to Chilcott's invitation to lift up 'our loftier song, and wake the sun that lies too long'.