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(Photograph taken at UCCMA convention -- Jane Leschuk, Gwyneth Walker, Cynthia Damer, former roommates from student years at the Hartt School of Music.)
Commissioned by the United Church of Christ Musicians' Association for premiere at the Annual Conference -- July 29, 2004 Allentown, PA, Marguerite Brooks, conductor
Ever With Me weaves together texts from several familiar hymns: "God be in my Head" (Sarum Primer) and "Lead Me, Lord" (Psalms 5:8 and 4:8). New words have been added as well. The intent is to create a musical setting which can bring renewed life to these beautiful lyrics.
The anthem opens with an invocation to prayer: "O Lord, hear my prayer." Then follows a gentle supplication: "Be in my head. Be in my eyes. Be in my mouth." The prayer becomes more forceful: "Lead me, Lord. Lead me in the paths of peace." And, finally, the prayer forms its most powerful expression: "God be in my head. God be in my eyes. God be in my mouth." Indeed, "God be in my joy and in my laughing." And, beyond life, "God be with me ever."
Notes by the composer