DESCRIPTION

In this original composition, a haunting, chant-like melody mirrors the mysterious quality of the ancient anonymous text. The opening phrase of the music unfolds like a rose that's gently blooming.

This ancient poem is full of mystery: including the Incarnation, the Virgin birth, and the Trinity. Also, the final verse encourages us to keep our eyes focused on the next life, instead of on this one.

My goal was to write music that invites the listener to meditate on these beautiful mysteries in a thoughtful and unrushed way.

Ideally, this piece should be sung a cappella, but there's an optional organ part to help out if needed.

TEXT INFO

There Is No Rose of Such Virtue

Anonymous English medieval text

Complete text:

There is no rose of such virtue
As is the rose that bare Jesu.
      Alleluia.

For in this rose containèd was
Heaven and earth in little space.
      Res miranda.   [Wondrous thing.]

By that rose we may well see
That he is God in persons three.
      Pares forma.   [Of equal form.]

The angels sang, the shepherds, too:
"Gloria in excelsis Deo!"
      Gaudeamus.   [Let us rejoice.]

Then leave we all this worldly mirth
And follow we this joyful birth.
      Transeamus.   [Let us go across (from worldly to heavenly things)]

Amen.

REVIEWS

Dr. Margaret Mueller, music professor:

“Peter's carol 'There Is No Rose of Such Virtue' is just beautiful —
so perfectly written, so memorable and singable — all choirs should have it.”

— Dr. Margaret Mueller, former Professor of Organ at Salem College