Malcolm Archer, the popular church music composer, has written a new anthem for choirs to sing on RSCM Music Sunday, set this year for 26th June 2011*. The piece, for four part choir and organ, is a setting of words from Psalm 81 “Sing we merrily unto God our strength”.
The anthem is published by the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM), and may be purchased at a discount by any group taking part in Music Sunday, not just those affiliated to the RSCM.
Malcolm Archer’s anthem is a catchy, joyous and dance-like setting in 6/8 time, with unison writing, parallel thirds, often with tenors and basses doubling sopranos and tenors, as well as melodies sung in canon by upper and lower voices. “It is written with the average parish church choir in mind,” says Tim Ruffer, the RSCM’s Head of Publishing. “Malcolm really has the knack of being able to write music which is accessible, can be quickly learnt, and above all enjoyed by those who sing it. It’s a worthy piece to celebrate Music Sunday.”
RSCM Music Sunday was successfully launched by the RSCM last year. All churches, schools and choirs – whether affiliated to the RSCM or not – are encouraged to celebrate the value and importance of music in their worship, as well as the work and talents of their musicians, whether singers, instrumentalists or organists. It’s also an initiative to raise funds, which will be split 50:50 between the RSCM and the participating church.
Last year, RSCM Music Sunday was celebrated all over the world in a wide range of initiatives from special collections and services to concerts and sponsored events. Ideas and suggestions for Music Sunday, including reports on some of last year’s initiatives are available on the RSCM website, www.rscm.com/musicsunday, along with downloadable advice and resources to help churches organise and publicise their events.
Sing we merrily can be ordered from RSCM Music Direct online at www.rscm.com/shop, by telephone at 0845 021 7726, or by email at musicdirect@rscm.com, order number A2604. The price is £2.50 per copy, or £1.87 for RSCM Affiliates, and organisations participating in Music Sunday can claim an extra discount after booking their event with the RSCM.
* Churches are at liberty to choose a date other than 26th June if they wish.