Shower, O Heavens – Carol Barnett

Composer: Carol Barnett

Instrumentation: SATB, Baritone Voice

Duration: Approx. 3:00

Date Written:  2025

Composer’s note:  

Shower, O Heavens is one of a series of anthems that Philip Brunelle has commissioned for each of the section leaders in his Plymouth Congregational Church Choir. Since the premiere was to be in spring, these two Old Testament verses about new growth and regeneration seemed especially appropriate. In keeping with the season, the setting is a sprightly triple meter.

text

“Shower, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness; let the earth open, that salvation and righteousness may bear fruit; let the earth cause them both to sprout; I the Lord have created it.” (Isaiah 45:8 ESV – used with permission.)

“Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from Heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps.” (Psalm 85:11-13 NIV – used with permission.)