A Blessing

This short benediction, set to familiar words from Corinthians, Thessalonians and the first book of Peter, is an enduring favourite. Informally known as the Navy blessing or the Scottish blessing, the words are sensitivelyenhanced by Shaw’s tune and harmonies, and can create an inspiring, meditative finale. Composer, conductor and producer Martin Shaw was of the Holst and Vaughan Williams generation of composers that was key in revivingpublic interest in the work of Purcell and was also a co-founder of the Royal School of Church Music. He once toured Europe as conductor to dancer Isadora Duncan and was briefly engaged to the daughter of theatrical star EllenTerry. His works number more than three hundred published pieces.

Arranged for SATB and organ, duration 2½ minutes.