JW Pepper:  Using a variety of percussion instruments and piano most effectively, Rosephanye Powell has created a Christmas anthem that is grand and joyous. Beginning as softly as the title states, it eventually changes direction and builds to a glorious and strong finale. Her gifts for melody, rhythmic motifs, and colorful harmonies come through as she unfolds the Christmas story in song.

Commissioned by Milwaukee Choristers, Dr. James Kinchen, Music Director, Softly the Night is Sleeping presents the serenity, beauty and majesty of the night of Christ’s birth.  Using a variety of percussion instruments and piano most effectively, Rosephanye has created a Christmas anthem that is grand and joyous. Beginning as softly as the title states, it eventually changes direction and builds to a glorious and strong finale. Her gifts for melody, rhythmic motifs, and colorful harmonies come through as she unfolds the Christmas story in song.

With words by E. A. Washburn, Softly the Night is Sleeping” paints a musical picture of the night that Christ was born.  It is through-composed, beginning with an introductory statement of “softly,” sounded by the piano which depicts the stillness of the night of Christ’s birth.  The choir imitates a soft wind blowing over the fields as the shepherds watch their flock, awaiting the birth of the Savior.  At measure 5, the choir introduces the theme of the song. The A section which begins at measure 9 incorporates jazz harmonies and rhythms which express the peacefulness of that special night.  The B section (mm 26-46) is majestic as the angels, shepherds and all the earth rejoice and dance, celebrating the birth of the King.  This section is influenced by rhythmic and harmonic flavors of traditional Israeli dances.   The C section begins at measure 49 as the basses, followed by the tenors, invite all who are awake and have heard the angels sing, to “come” and worship the King.  At measure 57, when the sopranos and altos enter, the song takes on the character of a Christmas carol.