Ave Verum (from Songs of Peace)

Other Info: The 14th-century Eucharistic text ‘Ave verum’ has been set to music by many composers over the centuries, no doubt due to its vivid and powerful imagery. This setting is taken from the fourth movement of a larger work, Songs of Peace, which was written in memory of Iris Todd. The melodic shape should be enjoyed and the larger leaps smoothly joined rather than separated. When the piece splits into two parts, the melody should come through the texture with the descant floating on top and interweaving but not obstructing.  The occasional optional divisi will add extra harmonic effects if included.

Other movements from Songs of Peace available separately include Precious Moment (SA & piano/organ) and Requiem (SATB div & piano). Complete vocal scores and parts of Songs of Peace are available from Boosey & Hawkes. Songs of Peace has been recorded by Fairhaven Singers conducted by Ralph Woodward on the Guild label.

Hail, true body, born
of the Virgin Mary
who having truly suffered, was sacrificed
on the cross for mankind,
whose pierced side
flowed with water and blood;
may it be for us a foretaste
in the trial of death.
O sweet Jesus, O pious Jesus,
O Jesus, son of Mary,
have mercy on me.