The opening verse, presented much like a strong, stately fanfare in 4/4leads us into the 2/2 feel of this spiritual favorite, which continues to build in rhythmic excitement and intensity. A soloist or small group is featured on three of the verses over the choir's spinning vocal ostinato patterns. Effectively utilized anywhere on a concert, it would especially be a great opener or closer. Don't miss this dynamic arrangement, certain to earn its place as a Christmas repertoire standard.