Now I Have known, O Lord

for SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied This anthem is set to a text by the 10th-century Sufi mystic, Al-Junaid. For the most part, the mood is intimate and introspective: intertwining, whispered melodies, sometimes in free time, alternate with quiet homophony. There is a moment of soaring, unrestrained ecstasy towards the end of the piece before it draws to a hushed conclusion. Suitable for a variety of occasions, this is beautiful, challenging music for serious choirs.