Crystal Ball, by J Waterhouse. Wikimedia commons During 2020, blog posts concentrated on selections during social isolation, often choosing songs readily to hand in Together in Song. As we emerge from this difficult phase, we may assume that some music, however limited, will be heard in gatherings once more. [Notes in square brackets indicate arrangements, … Continue reading Crystal Ball, to March 2021
Psalm 62, 24 Jan 21
‘I wait in silence.’ (1, 5) The repetition of this phrase within this song underlines the importance of switching off and reflecting in seeking patience, answers and encouragement. Remember Psalm 13 and other psalms asking ‘How long?’ Then this opening message of the first two verses, repeated in verses 5 to 6, continues: “For you alone are my … Continue reading Psalm 62, 24 Jan 21
Psalm 139, 17 Jan 2021
Where can I go from your spirit? (7) This extended lyrical song of praise to a pervasive divine spirit who knows us intimately -- "for it was you who formed me; I am fearfully and wonderfully made" -- also seeks justice and guidance in the ways of truth: Search me O God, and know my … Continue reading Psalm 139, 17 Jan 2021
Psalm 29, 10 Jan 21
The voice of God is a constant and powerful theme in this psalm — thundering over the mighty waters, shaking the wilderness, breaking cedars or flashing forth in flames. The psalmist (said to be David) assures us that through all the elemental turbulence of life, the divine spirit reigns supreme. Voices are distinctive. A familiar voice from … Continue reading Psalm 29, 10 Jan 21
Happy new year 2021
Wishing all readers and psalm singers a very happy 2021, full of hope, joy and music of the psalms, if not the spheres. A special thanks to our local Singers in the South who have over many years gathered faithfully to encounter your leader's flights of fancy; new musical styles, settings to challenge heart and … Continue reading Happy new year 2021
Psalm 147b, 3 Jan 2021
Welcome to 2021! Readers will no doubt relish the prospect of sunnier times ahead. If you wish, add a note below on your hopes and intentions for making life better for you and others. Sunnier times ahead. Image: Libby O'Loghlin How tied we are to our environment, complete with wild weather, floods, droughts, fires, global … Continue reading Psalm 147b, 3 Jan 2021
Psalm 148, 27 Dec 20
God gave creation a law that shall not pass away.' (6) "Praise God from the earth, you sea monsters and all deeps, fire and hail, snow and frost, stormy wind" This popular psalm is in the middle of the final group of half a dozen songs of praise which bring the Psalter to a climax. In broadly … Continue reading Psalm 148, 27 Dec 20
A medieval mystery
What is this early chant all about? The assiduous reader will have seen this one in these pages some years ago. It's worth another run. (I won’t ask if you can sing it) Here’s the full text in case you can’t read it: Reno erat Rudolphus / Nasum rubrum habebat;Si quando hunc videbas, Hunc candere … Continue reading A medieval mystery
Psalm 96, 97, 98; 25 Dec 20
[Note: no sung psalm at South Woden, balancing family moments and carols with the great virtue of brevity.] A joyful package suitable to a joyful occasion, these three songs for Christmas Eve and Day sing out in praise of the creator, the source of goodness, and a responsive jubilant creation. Psalm 96 begins with the much-sung ‘Sing to God a … Continue reading Psalm 96, 97, 98; 25 Dec 20
Psalm 89, 20 Dec 20
Psalm 89 is quite long at over fifty verses. So it ranges across several themes, beginning with a song of praise: 1 I will sing of your steadfast love, O Lord, forever; with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations. 2 I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as … Continue reading Psalm 89, 20 Dec 20
