Secular Concert Openers and Closers

Lush harmonies in a warm choral texture lay the foundation for this elegantly succinct setting of the traditional Irish blessing. A cappella, with a few lyric alterations to provide an enveloping framework

This final movement of Songs for the Journey is set to the traditional Irish blessing, "May the road rise up to meet you."

A Celtic inspired setting of the traditional Irish blessing text is supplemented with Latin phrases that echo the sentiment and layer the texture with elegance. The flowing piano accompaniment frames

This short but soaring "Amen" can be sung a cappella or accompanied with the simple piano part included. Try it as a benediction, a choral reflection, or as a short farewell to close a service or

This extraordinary benediction is dedicated to Clare College in Cambridge, where John Rutter taught for a number of years. The tranquil setting, vocal ranges, even the choice of tempo and key is remarkable

An expressive, through-composed setting of a traditional Celtic blessing. An appropriate choice for a concert closer, benediction, signature encore, or year-end send-off.

Beautifully capturing the essence of a traditional Gaelic blessing, this original setting evokes the natural tranquility of a "gentle night" where the "moon and stars pour their healing light on you." The

A simple a cappella setting of Fiona Macleod's traditional text that invokes the peace and stillness of nature. The choral parts move gently with extended cluster chord cadences and some simple divisi. This

Two traditional Irish blessings, "Deep peace of the running wave to you" and "May the road rise up to greet you" are artfully combined in this exquisite work by King's Singer and composer Phillip Lawson. A

This simple yet heartfelt melody for this traditional Irish blessing will resonate with your choir as well as your audience. Additional text by the composer adds depth to the already lovely text: "May you

A gorgeous setting of the well-known English prayer text. Available in a variety of voicings, this blessing is a wonderful way to conclude a service or performance.

"May the roads rise up to meet you, may the winds be always at your back... until we meet again." Available in a cappella and accompanied versions, the lovely choral texture utilizes straightforward rhythms

This moving, traditional Irish blessing is set to music of great simplicity and beauty. Chilcott perfectly captures the warmth and sincerity of the text and weaves a memorable melody which he clothes in

This lovely setting of a timeless text features warm a cappella harmonies with peaceful resolution and artful syllabic stress. Cluster chords and soaring lines create a simple yet stunning moment of

This sensitive original setting of the traditional Irish text is both accessible and expressive. A beautiful melody, simple harmonies and a flowing piano accompaniment combine to create an especially

This eloquently stated setting of the beloved text, May the Road Rise Up to Meet You, sits comfortably in each vocal part with no awkward skips or leaps. Some well-managed independence of voices

Here's a warm and heartfelt adaptation of traditional Irish and English blessing texts. A gentle yet rhythmic piano figure supports flowing vocal lines in this memorable closer or send-off song for young

This arrangement of the lesser-known spiritual Long Fare You Well builds on the expressive melody by incorporating fragments of the tune throughout the choral writing and culminates in a glorious

A tender prayer, sensitively set to music, the gentle accompaniment and simple, lyrical voice parts combine to create one of the sweetest anthems your choir will ever sing. A chamber ensemble includes full

This heartwarming benediction with its soaring melody and delicate phrasing will be a memorable moment in worship or concert. Available in several voicings or as a vocal solo, this harmonically rich piece

This dramatic and dynamic fanfare or call to worship with a text from Psalm 100, verses 1 and 2 are enhanced by a vibrant, rhythmic piano accompaniment. An exuberant and energetic showcase for treble

Don't miss this elegant setting of the traditional Irish blessing! Beautifully melodic and singable, lyric vocal lines and a gently flowing accompaniment combine to make it an ideal closer for any