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Download an MP3 file of a performance of this work by The Singers: Minnesota Choral Artists, Matthew Culloton, director.
Download an MP3 file of a performance of this work (SATB version) by the Section Leader Octet of the Chicago Temple Choir.
Good Shepherd was composed for William and Curt Sorensen, brothers and tenor soloists with the choir of the First Congregational Church of North Guilford, CT. Bill Sorensen raises sheep. Thus, the topic of the "Good Shepherd" seemed most appropriate.
This anthem is based on the traditional hymn, "The King of Love My Shepherd Is," with music and lyrics adapted by the composer. Interspersed with the preexisting material are short phrases, musical settings of lines from the Saint Patrick Breastplate: God before me. God beside me. God behind me. God above me.
The intent in combining these sources is to speak of God's presence guiding (as a "Good Shepherd"), surrounding (as in the St. Patrick lines), infusing the spirit (living in my heart) and even manifested in our beloved livestock!