DESCRIPTION:
For SATB chorus, Soprano solo, & Piano or String Quartet. The text of the Pie Jesu is taken from the final phrase of the Dies irae which can be found in the Requiem Mass. Many composers have famously set the Pie Jesu to music, most notably Gabriel Faure, John Rutter, and Andrew Lloyd Webber. In this setting, the phrase “gentle Lord Jesus” inspires an almost lullaby like quality where the soprano solo floats above the choral parts. The simplicity of the melody and the flowing and accessible choral lines make this a beautiful piece that any school or church choir can enjoy.

Mark Templeton, born 1974, is an American choral composer, conductor, and countertenor. Templeton’s music has been performed across the world at various international festivals and ACDA conventions. Some of his music is published by Santa Barbara Music Publishing, and he has recently started to self-publish. He teaches and resides with his wife, Becca, at West Nottingham Academy in Colora, Maryland, the oldest boarding school in the United States. He also enjoys coaching, playing, and watching soccer when he is not working. He is available for commission upon request.