Oundle Jubilate

My Oundle Jubilate was written in 1973 in response to a commission from Oundle School, where my brother Timothy was Director of Music. Tim wanted a festive setting of the New English Bible text which could be performed by the Chapel Choir, but with an additional unison part to be sung by the whole school. The accompaniment was scored for organ with optional parts for brass and percussion. In this form it received its first performance in November 1973. In 1999 I completely revised the work, tightening up the structure and rethinking the harmonic language in a number of places. After a brief fanfare-like introduction for the organ the Jubilate follows a straightforward ABA design. The contemplative middle section has a lyrical soprano solo which is framed by more extrovert music, including a flamboyant organ solo to introduce the Gloria.

© Christopher Brown 2011