O Antiphons of Advent

While the exact beginnings of the "O Antiphons" are untraceable, we have adequate evidence of their existence from the late 400s CE. Originally a series of recitations or chants, the antiphons have traditionally played a part in the Advent vespers, preceding the Magnificat during the time known as the Octave Before Christmas: December 17 through 23. Each of the antiphons has ties to the prophecies of Isaiah concerning the coming of Christ; likewise, each focuses on a different title for the MessiahWisdom; Lord; Root of Jesse; Key of David; Dayspring; King of Nations; and Emmanuel. These texts would ultimately transform into the now common hymn, "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." There is an enticing argument that the first letters of each antiphon, in their original Latin, form an acrostic. Taking the first letter of each text, last to first, the Latin phrase "Ero Cras" is formed, translating to "Tomorrow, I will be." This setting for medium voice and pianodrawing on jazz, blues, Broadway, and classical idiomsis equally effective as a recital piece or when performed as individual selections during Advent worship services.