Ave verum corpus

Bill Heigen (b. 1980) has set this classic Eucharistic hymn attributed to Pope Innocent VI (d. 1342) for unaccompanied SATB choir with several striking text-painting modulations. Although there are no divisi sections, this anthem might be a bit challenging for small ensemble with its long phrases, but the final result is very rewarding.  Beginning quietly, Heigen makes great use of 4-3 suspensions before the work culminates in an unexpected modulation on the text “fluxit aqua et sanguine.” This is a fresh alternative to the classic settings of this text by Byrd, Mozart, and Elgar.  – Derek E. Nickels, The Diapason, December 2018