This edition was prepared by Michael Winikoff — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
In the beginning
Staff Notation • Sacred
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In the beginning by Michael Winikoff — Lyrics
I.
Let there be light.
When the Lord God made the earth and the heavens, neither wild plants nor grains were growing on the earth, for the Lord God had not yet sent rain to water the earth, and there were no people to cultivate the soil.
II.
Let the land sprout with vegetation
every sort of seedbearing plant, and trees that grow seedbearing fruit
let the waters swarm with fish and other life
let the sky be filled with birds of every kind
let the earth produce every sort of animal
and God saw that it was good.
III.
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About In the beginning
This setting of the creation narrative from Genesis opens with a sense of unfolding wonder. The SATB choir depicts the gradual emergence of light and life, with textures that build from sparse to rich. The composer captures the awe of the divine act through evocative vocal writing. The English text moves from the initial command for light, through the creation of plants, animals, and humanity, to the charge of stewardship over the earth. The music reflects the majesty and beauty of this foundational sacred story, offering a powerful reflection on the origins of the world. The piece concludes as the text begins to describe the placement of humankind in the Garden of Eden.
