About the piece
A piece of praise for four-voice choir in Church Slavonic, from the Russian choral tradition. The edition, 36 measures long, carries soprano, alto, tenor and bass.
How to prepare it
The main challenge is the language and the vocal extent: the sopranos span E4–A5 (an eleventh) and the basses go down to C2, a very deep note typical of the Russian tradition. Work on pronunciation with the help of a speaker or a transliteration guide, and aim for a homogeneous, warm sound. Rehearse the outer voices first (soprano and bass), then the inner ones.
When to use it
Music of the Byzantine liturgy; it can also be used in concerts and ecumenical celebrations, as a communion piece on special occasions.