Locklair: The Spacious Firmament, for SATB double chorus, a cappella

The text is by the English poet, Joseph Addison (1672-1719), and was originally titled, Hymn. The “father of English hymnody,” Issac Watts, thought highly of Addison, calling him “the most authentic judge of fine thought and language that our age has produced.” This Addison hymn first appeared in print in the August 23, 1712, issue of The Spectator, at the end of an article by Addison entitled, An Essay on the Proper Means of Strengthening and Confirming Faith in the Mind of Man. It is based on Psalm 19, vs. 1–6. My setting of Addison’s words is full of dialogue throughout between the divided choirs. A relatively short middle section at the words, “What though in solemn silence all,” briefly stills the vibrant pace. However, the rhythmic energy soon returns, propelling the anthem toward its climax at the hymn’s final line, “The Hand that made us is divine.”

SATB Double Chorus, a cappella
Duration: 3′
Text: Joseph Addison
Composed: 2009
Published by: Subito Music Corporation

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