Good Friday Anthems for Worship

The captivating lyrics of the 17th-century PASSION CHORALE still resonate today as we reflect on the somber final moments prior to Jesus' death. Paired in this setting are the minor tonalities of the tune

This ballad carries the message of Christ's profound love to congregations far and wide. The lyrics weave a tapestry of beautiful imagery and poignant metaphors and are perfectly complemented by an inspired

Effective, simple part-writing and exceptional use of dynamics have made this piece an icon of sacred choral literature. There is just no better way to express the meaning of the cross, particularly during

Especially meaningful during the days of Holy Week, the text relates to our Lord praying in the garden of Gethsemane, and weaves around the tree theme found in many scriptures about the cross. The original

This beloved hymn, written in the first-person singular, invites all to participate directly in the passion narrative and to identify with the suffering Christ. The compelling musical setting captures all

The well-known Good Friday text is creatively paired here with the WAYFARING STRANGER tune. This inspired, fresh take on these well-known classics envelops us in the pathos of the crucifixion story. Lovely

A deeply sacred text by John Newton is woven with a contemplative interpretation of the KINGSFOLD tune. Poignant and unique, this offering will provide a reverent moment in your Lenten or Good Friday

This earnest, haunting setting of the familiar Latin text includes sensitive, skillful part-writing and seamless interplay between the voices and accompaniment. An outstanding piece for a mixed choir of any

Set to the tune KINGSFOLD, this Isaac Watts hymn text takes on a mysterious and somber character in this exquisite arrangement. Simply scored for piano, choir, and solo violin, the harmonic structure and

From the cantata Calvary's Mountain, this effective arrangement of the beloved spiritual is well crafted to deliver a fullness of sound without raising the level of difficulty. The emotional

This arrangement of the classic contemporary hymn receives a beautiful setting that showcases Mark Hayes' skill in writing for voices and piano. Suitable for Lent, Holy Week, and anytime we need a reminder

Drawing inspiration from the profound words of Isaiah 53, this captivating song for a cappella choir evokes a sense of hope and solemnity while the stirring melody blends seamlessly with poignant harmonies.

This version of the great spiritual is rich in text painting and digs deeply into the emotions portrayed in the words. The arrangement begins effectively with the sound of the hammer in the low piano part.

This Good Friday anthem presents the events of the crucifixion with breathtaking power. The lush, sweeping orchestration comes from the Lenten cantata At His Name which reflects on Jesus' ministry

This Good Friday text by Samuel Wesley barely escaped the flames when Wesley's Epworth rectory burned on February 9, 1709. Wes Cameron sets three of the stanzas to a simple melody and adds the chorus "it is

Prayerful and poetic, this Good Friday offering is unforgettable. The anthem dramatically paints the picture of Jesus' first words from the cross: "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are

With an original melody for the text from the spiritual Were You There?, this anthem offers an expressive contemplation of Christ's suffering and crucifixion. A quick study, this piece is

A beautiful presentation of the traditional spiritual with a flowing piano accompaniment and optional cello obbligato. Gorgeous harmonization and well-utilized unison sections combine in a tender and

From the cantata Worthy Is the Lamb! comes this dramatic and solemn anthem depicting the crucifixion. Perfect for Good Friday, the ending is appropriately quiet and reflective.

Opening with a plaintive solo statement of the compelling theme, the choir soon joins to enrich this Good Friday anthem. With a loneliness and heaviness that perfectly paints the moment, the voices soar

One of the most poignant of all scriptures is interpreted for today, set to music of scope and power. The score reflects great musical contrast, from the sweeping melody that opens the piece to the quick

The classic text by Jennie E. Hussey and the music of J.S. Bach's Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring have been masterfully combined, and the results are sublime. Featuring vocal writing that is easily

This selection is perfect for Holy Week and Good Friday services. The scale-based melody of each somber verse gives way to a hopeful chorus proclaiming that Jesus "dies for you and me." The part-writing is