Cherubic Hymn

The well-known Kievan Communion Hymn melody "I will receive the cup of salvation" serves as the basis for this composition. Taking a lead from some of the best composers of the "new Russian choral school," Benedict Sheehan treats the cantus firmus in motivic fashion, weaving a varied and changeable polyphonic texture, rather than a simple harmonization. The musical interest generated by the writing makes this a festive liturgical setting as well as an effective concert piece.