Processio Christus est stella matutina
After an emotive opening by the solo cello (may substitute alto sax), the choir enters with rich chords against an original chant melody sung by a soloist. Handbells or handchimes then enter with random pitches that add to the mysterious and meditative nature of this piece. The choir takes the text, in time, and with a gentle lilt, with the cello adding elaborative phrases. A soprano descant soars above all for a rapturous climax on “Alleluia” before the texture dissipates to a sublime ending. No additional handbell part needed. The instrument parts are available as a free download on the publisher's website.