Waldemar Åhlén - Sommarpsalm

We crowned our concert "Nattens Silverljus" in Storkyrkan 2022-05-30 with an extra piece, the beloved Sommarpsalm by Waldemar Åhlén. A true mark of the Swedish summer entrance.

S:t Jacobs Vokalensemble
Conductor: Mikael Wedar

Translation by Carolyn Jennings (1936-) and Kenneth Jennings (1925-2015).
Professors of Music, St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota, USA.

The earth adorned in verdant robe
sends praises upward surging,
while soft winds breathe on fragrant flow'rs
from winter now emerging.
The sunshine bright gives warmth and light
to budding blossoms tender,
proclaiming summer splendour.

From out the wood the birds now sing
and each its song now raises,
to join with all the universe
in voicing thankful praises.
With hope and joy their songs employ
a rapturous exultation
in praise of God's creation.

O God, amid these joys of life,
creation's glory beaming,
grant us the grace to keep Your word
and live in love redeeming.
All flesh is grass, the flowers fade,
and time is fleeting ever;
God's word remains forever.