The Seven Joys of Mary (Philip Le Bas) - with optional flute and clarinet parts

Video score of a 2019 setting by Philip Le Bas (updated 2023) of the ancient carol "The Seven Joys of Mary" (or "Joys Seven", or a variety of other possible titles.) This version includes optional flute and B flat clarinet parts. (For the version without these see:    • The Seven Joys of Mary (Philip Le Bas)  )

Since medieval times the number of "Joys of Mary" has varied between five, seven, ten and twelve, but the the current number of seven has become popular, especially since the basic harmonization of R.R. Terry published in 1833 and the contemporary version for 8-part choir by Stephen Cleobury in the OUP's "Carols for Choirs" series. (A history of the carol can be found in the New Oxford Book of Carols, edited by H Keyte and A Parrott, p.462f.)
The version presented here is kept relatively simple to perform, being scored only for three-part choir (SABar - soprano, alto, baritone) and piano, but with plenty of interest including changes in voicing, changes of rhythm (especially verse 6) and two key changes. The arranger hopes performers and listeners will find it energetic and fun! It should certainly be sung in that spirit!
Although often associated with Christmas, it could in fact be performed in any season, including Easter, referring as it does to the whole life, death and resurrection of Christ.

For choral practice videos see:
soprano -    • The Seven Joys of Mary (Philip Le Bas...  
alto -    • The Seven Joys of Mary (Philip Le Bas...  
baritone -    • The Seven Joys of Mary (Philip Le Bas...  

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