The Lamb

The Lamb is John Tavener's setting of William Blake's poem for unaccompanied SATB (Soprano/Alto/Tenor/Bass) choir.

John Tavener's mesmerising choral work The Lamb hasbeen a firm favourite since its composition in 1982. Audiences love the beautiful simplicity of the words and the lush harmonies that the different Vocal parts create. The piece was composed by Tavener in just oneafternoon, and was dedicated to his nephew's third birthday. Although the piece is unaccompanied, a Piano accompaniment is included for rehearsal purposes.

This particular piece is challenging yet rewarding, with divergent,almost discordant parts in the first verse, as the poem asks ambiguous questions. During the second verse, however, the song breaks into an uplifting harmony as the poem resolves to an epiphany. When performed well, TheLamb is quietly atmospheric and a joy to hear.

So for something special for your four-part choir to perform, John Tavener's The Lamb is a hauntingly pretty piece that is sure to leave youraudiences speechless.