Song of Faith

About

This piece was originally dedicated to Prima Voce, the Form 4 to 7 choir of Epsom Girls' Grammar School. It was written at the request of their conductor, David Hamilton, for performance at a competition administered by the New Zealand Choral Federation. The text is a rather free translation of Proverbs 3.5, made with the intention of speaking simply in the language of today while preserving the message of the source. The tune matches the words in its simplicity and directness. However it is presented in such a way as to incorporate a number of styles of singing – unison, solo, imitation, chordal, descant – while at the same time lying well within the reach of inexperienced singers. The piano part is perhaps a little more ambitious, and requires a pianist of some years' experience. The text is as follows: Faith is trusting God when we can not make sense of everything. Look to him in all you do, and he will help you to find the best way. Do not be limited by what you understand right now.