Divine Encounter: III. The Blessing

Description

The third movement of Craig Courtney’s trilogy, Divine Encounter, The Blessing is a newly-composed benediction based on Numbers 6:24-26. As Jesus blessed and multiplied the fish and bread, so God blesses the offering we bring to Him. The melody, which is one large-scale arc, is stated twice, creating a simple, sincere message of peace and rest. Suitable for use on its own, or as part of the three-movement work; effective in both worship and concert settings.

Divine Encounter
I. The Invitation
SATB

Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

SSAA
Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

TTBB
Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

II. The Offering
SATB

Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

SSAA
Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

TTBB
Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

III. The Blessing
SATB

Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

SSAA
Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

TTBB
Brass Sextet •
String Quartet •
Orchestra •
Alternate Piano Accompaniment •
Accompaniment CD

*Optional instrument ensembles include a score and set of parts.
Brass Sextet includes 2 Trumpets, Horn, 2 Trombones, Bass Trombone
String Quartet includes 2 Violins, Viola, and Cello
Full Orchestra instrumentation for the complete Divine Encounter includes:

Flute, Oboe, B-flat Clarinet (2), Bassoon (2)
Horn (2), B-flat Trumpet (2)*, Trombone (2), Bass Trombone, Tuba*
Percussion (1-2 players: Crash Cymbals, Suspended Cymbals, Timpani)*
Harp**
Strings

*Movements 1 and 2 only
**Movements 1 and 3 only

The organ part (in the choral score), or the alternate piano part (available separately), is compatible with the full orchestration if the harp is not available.