Amherst
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Amherst by William Billings — Lyrics
About Amherst
William Billings' Amherst is a grand, four-part setting of the opening verses of Psalm 136. Its Latin text, a powerful call to praise God for His eternal mercy, is delivered with the composer's characteristic directness and robust energy. The text begins by proclaiming God's goodness and steadfast love, then recounts His mighty deeds, from the creation of the heavens and earth to the liberation of His people from Egypt. This hymn would serve well as a jubilant anthem for any service, its familiar liturgical language and celebratory message making it a rousing choice for a choir. The SATB voicing offers rich opportunities for dynamic contrast and harmonic breadth.