Gwyneth Walker

A Sacred Place

for SATB Chorus and String Orchestra (2007)
for SATB Chorus and Organ (2007)

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Download a PDF file of the score (string orchestra version) of this composition. For perusal only -- not printable.

Download a PDF file of the score (organ version) of this composition. For perusal only -- not printable.


Commissioned by First Presbyterian Church of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, in celebration of their 50th Anniversary (1957-2007)

Premiered on November 11, 2007, by the Choir of First Presbyterian Church, Russell Floyd, Music Director

These are three reflections (songs) which celebrate the place - the church - as a house, as a room, where the spirit rejoices in faith.

"Welcome to the House of the Lord" starts with the outer elements, coming into the church. Welcome light, welcome beauty, welcome wonder. The focus then turns inward, to the personal gifts of healing and comfort. And, as we welcome the many aspects of faith, we realize that, one blessing at a time, we are welcoming God!

"In This Still Room" is a musical setting of the poem by Quaker poet John Greenleaf Whittier. Although these lyrics are inspired by the Quaker Meetinghouse, the "still room" may also refer to the moments of silent prayer and meditation within any worship service. "I find it well to come for deeper rest to this still room."

To celebrate a place, a spirit, a faith, one sings "Alleluia! Amen!"

Notes by the composer