This piece, written for treble voices, is based on the hymn tune Ermuntre dich. This tune is best known in its chorale setting by JS Bach. O beauteous heavenly light features two versions of the ending–one which splits into 6 parts, the other preserving the three-part harmony in the chorus. Both versions include a soprano solo in the final sequence (this solo can also be performed by a male voice, set apart from the treble choir).
This piece was premiered by the Lutheran Festival Chorus on 23 November, 2014. The Women’s Chorus of Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN performed the piece in December 2015; that performance can be heard below.
clayton j horath 