Ecce Lignum Crucis (Behold the wood of the Cross) Small Ensemble - Digital Sheet Music

ECCE LIGNUM CRUCIS for COR ANGLAIS and ORGAN

Playing time: Appx. 3:00
Services: Lent, Good Friday, Holy Week, Stations of the Cross, Ordinary Time

I composed this reflective, prayerful piece for Good Friday, but it can be used at any time during Lent or even Ordinary Time when a soft, reflective mood is desired. By using the optional repeat, and repeating the piece as often as is required, it can even be used as a background for special Stations of the Cross services. The melody is inspired by the words, "Behold the Wood of the Cross."

I recommend using soft flutes for the organ, even for the pedal line, and if necessary it could be played on the Swell with the Swell Box either partially opened or fully closed, to achieve the proper balance with the Cor Anglais. The unusual combination of these two instruments fills the worship space with an ethereal spirituality.

I have also included a copy of the horn part, but arranged for any C instrument if a Cor Anglais is not available. The C instrument performer may have to adjust the octave to suit the performance, and even using a cello is a wonderful option - again assuming the performer makes adjustments as necessary. Another possibility is to use the Cor Anglais and a C instrument, say, a cello: Cor Anglais on first section, cello for the middle, and Cor Anglais for the third section with the cello joining in unison an octave lower for the final phrase. The possibilities are practically endless.

It is my prayer that the performance of this work will create a peaceful, reflective, and spiritual mood for you and your congregation.

God bless.