When I needed a neighbour by Sydney Carter 3-Part - Sheet Music

SKU: ST.W246

ISBN 9790220230295.

Solo voices, SABar and piano
Arranged by Marsha Morrison in a gospel style
Includes both an original and simplified piano accompaniment

For Sydney Carter, every performance of his songs was a reimagining of the soul of folksong which inspired his timeless artistry. In the same spirit, arranger Marsha Morrison has created a vibrant gospel version of his classic anthem When I needed a neighbour, first performed by London’s Kingdom Choir at the celebratory service for the eightieth anniversary of Christian Aid, held at Westminster Abbey in June 2025. Uniquely, too, alongside Sydney’s lyrics were woven specially commissioned new verses by poet–hymnwriter Rev. Ally Barrett, reflecting contemporary challenges of conflict and crisis, while reinforcing the perennial message of Carter’s original words and music, written in 1965 for the Trafalgar Square launch of Christian Aid Week.

In this powerful new arrangement, for solo singers with soprano, alto and baritone voices and piano, there is also freedom to add accompanying instruments to the printed transcription of the keyboard part (for which the assistance of Marc Morrison is gratefully acknowledged), or to the simplified form also provided. At the premiere, Twyford CofE High School’s gospel choir Sacred and soloist Emmanuel Smith joined The Kingdom Choir, accompanied by Vaughan Larmond, in an account of great depth and meaning. Whatever the chosen vocal or instrumental forces, however, the concept should be flexible, expressive and uplifting, the music and words a clear call to love our neighbours, and to speak out honestly against suffering and the global injustice that echo in today’s headlines.