The former organist and director of music at York Minster, Francis Jackson (b. 1917) has set the festive text of Psalm 150 (except for the opening and closing 'Hallelujas') to a lively and challenging anthem for organ and SATB choir. The text is painted masterfully throughout this anthem using dissonances to the best advantage. Written for the Schola Cantorum of Ampleforth Abbey and Ian Little, this anthem would probably be a challenge for most church choirs with its
rhythmic drive and demanding organ part, but very rewarding. * Derek E. Nickels, Diapason, September 2019 * The indefatigable Francis Jackson, now in his 101st year, continues to write works with a youthful vigour and inventiveness. Many composers have set Psalm 150, O praise God in his sanctuary, but few with such heartfelt joy - although I particularly like the contrasting central section where the music moves into 6/8 to 'praise him in the timbrels and dances' and (sostenuto) 'praise him upon the strings'. The anthem was written for Ampleforth Abbey and the
printed organ registration specifies both 'Trompeta' (presumably the Abbey's unique Trompetta Argentea) and separately 'Small Trumpet'. The Trompeta may have to be regarded as optional for performances in places without an equivalent; what is not optional is a final top B flat for first sopranos. * James L. Montgomery, Sunday by Sunday (RSCM), December 18 *