Sweet Angels Come Nearer

from Angel of Light

SATB Chorus, Soprano Solo
Duration: 2 Minutes
Text: Traditional Shaker, Canterbury, NH
Year: 2015

Commissioned by: Capitol Hill Chorale, Washington, DC
Premiered by: Capitol Hill Chorale, Frederick Binkholder, director, June 6 & 7, 2015

E. C. Schirmer Music Company/Dale Warland Choral Series #8779

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J.W. Pepper
Musicroom
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ECS Publishing

  • Sweet Angels Come Nearer is the opening movement of Angel of Light, a cantata based on Shaker texts and melodies. Adapted from a Shaker song from the 1870s, Sweet Angels Come Nearer serves as a gentle and inviting choral invocation. Throughout Shaker history, angels have played a significant role as messengers of guidance, strength, encouragement, and inspiration, often manifesting through the medium of song.

  • Sweet angels come nearer,
    O nearer and nearer,
    Do list to our pleadings
    For strength from on high.

    Sweet angels come nearer,
    O nearer and nearer.