This edition was prepared by Douglas Walczak — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Except the Lord build the house
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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Except the Lord build the house by Mark James Monk — Lyrics
Psalm 127: 1,2:
1. Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
2. It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
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About Except the Lord build the house
This SA anthem opens with a gentle, flowing melody, soon joined by a second voice to create a warm, imitative texture. The music effectively conveys the text's message of trust in divine providence, drawing from Psalms 127 and 111. The composer sets the verses describing the futility of human effort without God's blessing, followed by the wisdom found in obedience. The piece builds to a thoughtful conclusion, reinforcing the idea that true peace and understanding come from a spiritual foundation. This anthem offers a contemplative and reassuring setting of scriptural truths, suitable for a variety of sacred occasions.
