Roses and Thorns
The Russian text of this anthem tells the story of a rose garden that the child Jesus planted. Along comes a troop of ugly children, who pluck the blooms and weave a crown of thorns that they press on Jesus' head..."till on His forehead fair and young, red drops of blood like roses sprung." Three octaves of bells ring throughout the work, predominantly in repetitious accompaniment patterns. The voices are 2-part, accompanied by keyboard, optional bells and guitar.