The Lord is My Shepherd

Michael Sitton’s new setting of the 23rd Psalm follows in a centuries old practice of “follow the leader” thematic writing, hearkening of course to the Shepherd and his sheep! "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want", a gentle refrain, and the ensuing verses, each with changes of harmonic color in accord with the text, create a miniature Rondeau. Beautiful and simple in form with a supportive organ accompaniment, this setting may be used with any combination of voices as will meet the needs of your choir. Commissioned for the Service of Evensong for the June 2011 AAM Convention.

Psalm 23 is set with the treble voices in imitative counterpoint; the lines gently flow above the organ music that is on three staves. The harmony is sweet. Although the basic tempo moves somewhat quickly, the mood of the music is gentle and calm. This attractive setting has limited vocal ranges and a soothing quality.
THE DIAPASON, JANUARY 2012

This final commissioned anthem is probably the most universally approachable of the set; the performing forces could range from two well-matched individual voices to divided trebles to women’s voices to mixed voices.  a2. Sitton reprises the opening passage ( the first verse of this most universally beloved Psalm) twice, which makes for both nicely apprehensible musical shape and ease of learning; the feel is fittingly “pastoral” throughout (it almost feels more like 6/4 than the marked like 3/4.  Even in a world teeming with settings of this text, this one would be a useful and enjoyable addition to many a choir’s library.

THE AMERICAN ORGANIST, DECEMBER 2011