About the piece
A chant of praise and thanksgiving that accompanies the consecration in the Orthodox and Byzantine liturgy, in four voices and in Church Slavonic. The edition has 26 measures in 3/4.
How to prepare it
It is a challenge because of the language and the low voices: the basses of the Russian tradition reach very deep notes (here down to B1), so the choir should have capable basses or the key should be adapted. The other voices move in moderate ranges (sopranos E4–F♯5 (a major ninth), tenors G3–F♯4 (a major seventh)). Start by working on pronunciation with a speaker or a transliteration guide, and aim for a closed, homogeneous sound, typical of Slavic choral singing.
When to use it
It is sung in the Byzantine liturgy during the Eucharistic prayer; in a Catholic context it can be used at celebrations of the Eastern rite, in concerts and as a communion piece on special occasions.