An Irish Blessing - SATB 4-Part - Digital Sheet Music

Choral Choir, Choral (SATB Chorus) - Level 2 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.928965

Composed by Traditional Irish Blessing. Arranged by Donald A. Mills. This edition: pdf. A Cappella, Celtic, Concert, Holiday, Spiritual. Octavo. 2 pages. Donald A Mills #3449983. Published by Donald A Mills (A0.928965).

AN IRISH BLESSING

This hymn is for SATB a cappella, and written for easy singing by church choirs, schools, or community choral groups. A pianist or organist may play the four parts along with the choir if desired. This hymn is short and may be used as a benediction at the end of a religious service. Of course it is very useful for a choral concert performance of any sort. Just sing it softly when required, sing it sweetly, and your audiences will love it.

As a stand alone concert piece, most everyone will love the beautiful melody, the message of the words (even in the concert sense), and the harmonies.  This should be a relatively easy piece to sing...don't rush it, give it it's own space and time.  

Historically, this traditional Irish blessing is an ancient Celtic prayer. Celtic literature is famed for using images of nature and everyday life to speak of how God interacts with with His people.

"May the road rise up to meet you" is about God's blessing for your journey in life - may your walk be an easy one, with no mountains to climb or obstacles to overcome.

It alludes to three images from nature - the wind, sun and rain - as pictures of God's care and provision:

The "wind" can be likened to the Spirit of God, which helps move you along on rough days.

The sun's warmth in the prayer reminds us of the tender mercies of God, "by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven."

The soft falling rain speaks of God's provision and sustenance.

Finally, we are reminded that we are held safe in God's loving hands as we travel on our journey through life.