Music for Advent–The O Antiphons

First of all, if you haven’t read Jim Faulconer’s lovely Advent meditation, DO!

Belatedly, here are some settings of the O Antiphons for Advent, traditionally sung during evening services from 17-23 December.  The texts are based mostly on passages from Isaiah, and are titled O Sapientia (Wisdom), O Adonai (Lord), O Radix Jesse (Root of Jesse), O Clavis David (Key of David), O Oriens (Dayspring), O Rex Gentium (King of the Nations), and O Emmanuel.

Settings by

Charpentier

Pärt

Peter Witte

Also, for tonight:  the plaintive cry, Veni, Veni Emmanuel (again) and the joyous answer, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day.

Merry Christmas!