Chorale Prelude: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence

This piece reinterprets a centuries-old French carol that captures the awe and mystery of the Christmas story: a child sent to redeem the world. Starting with the literal sound of breath going silent, the beginning motif soars between optional soloists and a variety of time signatures. Growing with a pulse throughout, ending in a stirring climax as the Christmas angels exult "Alleluia!"