Two Chant Processionals

Use: Advent, Marian, General
Required Resources: organ


Jesuit Father Kevin Waters offers two organ processionals based on chant themes. The first, Veni Emmanuel, is a strong setting, marked Allegro giusto, that can be used to start Solemn Evening Prayer (Vespers) or a communal Penance Service during Advent. Although the hymn tune is not stated from start to finish, its fragments are used freely in this fantasia written for two manuals and pedal. Quite accessible to the average organist, this processional may well find a home in many Advent repertoires, even as a postlude (perhaps on Gaudete Sunday).

The second piece, Concordi lætitia, a robust processional intended for full organ registration, would make a wonderful opening for a Marian feast day (perhaps Assumption or Immaculate Conception), or for Marian devotions (Vespers, Rosary, May Crowning). The chant on which the music is based has a Marian theme, sometimes translated as "Sounds of joy have put to flight." It is also familiar as a general hymn with the text, "Loving shepherd of the sheep."

Kevin Waters, SJ, holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in classics, philosophy, music, and theology. He has had numerous commissioned works and premieres presented across the country. Currently he is Dean Emeritus of the College of Arts and Sciences, Gonzaga University, and is professor of both Philosophy and Music at the university. He has been a member of the Oregon Province of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) since August 1951.