Soul of Christ (Anima Christi)

Evocative and haunting, this English-language setting of the well-known traditional prayer is scored for SAB choir and keyboard; it was inspired by the composer_x0019_ s Ignatian pilgrimage to Spain and Italy. Musically, the piece makes frequent use of the lowered second scale degree to capture the flavor of some of the Spanish music that the composer heard while there. Most of the piece is atmospheric rather than melodic, with the exception being the _x001C_ O Good Jesus, hear me_x001D_ section. It would be an appropriate anthem for any liturgy featuring themes of comfort, eternal life and heaven, Eucharist, water, or the suffering of Christ.