Hewitt Jones, Thomas - Onward we go

Unison voices and organ or piano
Words by Gordon Giles

A perfect seasonal choice, Onward we go is a consummate example of Thomas Hewitt Jones’s feeling for young voices, and his passion for sharing the joy of Christmas through memorable tunes. A beautiful, arching melody carries the delightful verse by Canon Gordon Giles, which tells of children singing as they journey to the manger. Shepherds, angels and the Magi accompany them on their way, bearing gifts of love to honour the incarnation in faith, hope and reverence. Expressive and irresistible, words and music go straight to the heart, with a warmth especially inspired by the dedicatees, chorister-tutor Caroline Lenton-Ward and the children’s choir of St Stephen’s, South Dulwich, a church which also played a formative part in the composer’s musical upbringing. 

Onward we go may be performed by unison voices with organ or piano, or with organ or piano and additional flexible instrumental ensemble including any available upper strings and woodwind, plus optional cello, bass guitar or double bass, mark tree and tubular bells.

A set of score and parts for the optional ensemble (Cat. No. Y373) will be available to purchase.