This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Heath
Staff Notation • Sacred
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATB · Barry Johnston
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Heath by William Billings — Lyrics
Awake my soul, awake mine eyes,
Awake my drowsy faculties;
Awake and see the newborn light,
Sprung from the darksome womb of night.
Look up and see th'unwearied sun
Already has his race begun:
The pretty lark is mounted high,
And sings her matins in the sky.
Arise, my soul, and thou, my voice
In songs of praise early rejoice
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About Heath
William Billings's Heath is a rousing sacred anthem for SATB choir, setting an English text that describes the dawn and the spiritual awakening it inspires. The lyrics speak of the sun rising, the lark ascending to sing its morning prayers, and the soul being called to rejoice in praise of the Creator. The text then moves to a prayer for protection from sin and purity of life, so that one might face the final day with cheerfulness. This is an energetic piece, suitable for a morning service or any occasion where a theme of spiritual renewal and praise is appropriate.
