This is the Day that the Lord has Made

Description

This is the Day that the Lord has Made
William Ferris

The late William Ferris composed this large, festive work specifically for the dawn of the new millenium and it received its premiere on January 2, 2000. It is based on the words of Psalm 118. A fanfare at the opening provides the sturdy musical material for the entire work. The choir first enters with the words, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord.” The opening section is full of wonderful sonority for choir, brass and organ. A repeat of the opening fanfare leads to the middle section, based on modal harmonies and reflective in spirit. The fanfare returns and opens the final section with triumphant words, “This is the day that the Lord has made.” The work ends in a very declamatory manner. This is a splendid new festival work that can be performed in any liturgical season.