Blessed Are They

“Blessed Are They” was written way back in 1992, for my first-ever Easter musical, THE CHOICE, to be sung in the scene at the Sermon on the Mount. The song was never released individually as an anthem, so this is its first outing in that respect. It only took 33 years!

Because I wrote and arranged the musical under a tight deadline, I had zero time to re-think any of my musical decisions. Whatever I came up with first – that’s what made it onto the score. In the case of “Blessed Are They” that resulted in several unison phrases extending the basses and altos out of their comfort range. So, while this version remains in the same keys and follows the same form as the original, the voice-writing is decidedly more “choir-friendly.” As a result, it sings great, and your basses and altos will be happy campers.

The late Dave Williamson wrote the original orchestration, which was lovely. I maintained many of Dave’s lines and ideas, while adjusting and adding my own work to the new orchestration. The new piano accompaniment reflects these changes and is decidedly more “pianistic” throughout – for those who would perform the anthem with piano accompaniment only.

I think it’s safe to assume most worship/choir leaders considering this anthem have never heard the original. Regardless any changes made, what is most significant about this anthem is its message. The Beatitudes are among the most powerful and memorable words ever spoken. I hope that by setting them to music the words might settle a little deeper in a Believer’s heart and, perhaps reach some listener who might not have ever heard them.