The Oxford Book of Easy Flexible Anthems

spreading widely spaced chords, or using the right hand to play some of the
notes on the left-hand stave.
In several anthems there are sections where the accompaniment is entirely
in small notes, or where doubling ‘ad lib.’ is indicated. If desired, the accompaniment
can be omitted in these sections if all voices are singing, but should
be played if they are not, unless otherwise indicated.
Above all, remember that the accompaniment is designed to support the
choir, adding musical interest but not detracting from the singing or the
projection of the words.
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Words, tempi, and expression
The starting point for every anthem is the words—they set the speed, mood,
style, expression, and character of the anthem. Metronome marks are provided,
but these are only suggestions, as the optimum tempo will vary according to
the circumstances and to the size and acoustic of the building in which the
anthem is performed. Clarity of words is essential, and this should also guide
the choice of tempo. A slight emphasis on the important words will help to
shape the phrases musically. When learning a new anthem, focus right from
the beginning on the meaning of the words. This will help choirs to develop a
deeper understanding of the anthem.
Preparing this collection, and its predecessors, has been a wonderful voyage of
discovery, and I hope that it has achieved its intention: to enable all choirs, of
whatever size or composition, to sing to the glory of God every Sunday and on
each principal feast day of the year. I hope it meets that expectation and that
choirs will find it a useful aid to worship.
I would like to thank all those who have given helpful advice during the
compilation of this book, in particular Julian Elloway and Colin Baldy. I would
also like to mention the invaluable experience of the needs of ‘flexible choirs’
gained from singing in the small choir of Lion Walk United Reformed Church
(director, Ian Ray) for many years. Finally, of course, my grateful thanks go to
all those at OUP responsible for the various aspects of the project, in particular
Robyn Elton, Managing Editor, whose advice, efficiency, and encouragement
has been absolutely invaluable.
Alan Bullard, Winter 2016
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