Pax

This is a lyrical but dramatic setting of an original melody. Full of contrast and dynamic variety, the piece begins simply and grows in emotion and texture all the way to the fortissimo ending. Chimes are optional but effective in the middle section against the upper bells, played suspended with mallets. Then the chimes play on top in the contrasting minor section just before the return of the main theme. This is a substantial piece, accessible for a wide range of choirs and rewarding to learn.