Psalm 124 (2012)

For SATB Choir with Divisi and Organ (4')

Description:

Transformative praise through trial and deliverance

Commissioned by Tenth Presbyterian Church of Philadelphia in 2012, this setting of Psalm 124 for SATB choir with divisi and organ blends lush harmonies with vivid, narrative-driven pacing. The music moves from threat to triumph—evoking overwhelming waters, broken snares, and the power of divine rescue—with striking harmonic language and a powerful organ part that both grounds and elevates the piece.

Moderate in difficulty but rich in sonority and drama, it’s ideal for any worship service or concert that honors resilience, thanksgiving, or the sustaining hand of God.

Text:

If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, 

Let Israel now say— 

If it had not been the Lord who was on our side when people rose up against us, 

Then they would have swallowed us up quick. 

When their wrath kindled against us; 

Then the waters had overwhelmed us, 

The stream had gone over our soul, 

Then the proud waters had gone over our soul. 

Our soul is escaped 

As a bird out of the snare of the fowlers; 

The snare is broken, 

And we are escaped. 

Our help is in the name of the Lord, 

who made heaven and earth. 

Tags: SATB, divisi, organ, Psalm 124, sacred, dramatic, moderate difficulty, lush harmony, narrative structure, commissioned