Exsultet [The Easter Proclamation]

- Stephen McManus

PDF Sample

Use: Easter Vigil
Required Resources: Deacon or cantor, SATB choir
Language: English

The Exsultet is an ancient liturgical poem filled with vivid, colorful images, all extolling the wonders of the Resurrection. It is commonly chanted by the Deacon at the Easter Vigil, standing near the Paschal Candle, with the candles of all the baptized faithful flickering in the church. The music used is often the tone found in The Roman Missal, but other presentations are possible.

Stephen McManus sets the text for a baritone soloist (which certainly could be a musically-talented deacon) and SATB choir. The singing is a cappella in order that the organ not be played until the dramatic singing of the Gloria at the Great Easter Vigil.

The triple fanfare that begins the Exsultet:

1. "Exult, let them exult…"
2. "Be glad, let earth be glad…"
3. "Rejoice, let Mother Church also rejoice…"

is set for soloist/deacon and choir, sometimes alternating, sometimes singing together.

After that, the text beginning "Therefore, dearest friends, standing in the awesome glory of this holy light…" is sung by the soloist/deacon to an original chant-like melody. The SATB choir concludes with a triple Amen. Those portions of the text omitted by a non-cleric are clearly indicated.