Stanford – How beauteous are their feet (1904) 

Sir Charles Villiers Stanford (1852–1924), an influential Irish composer and conductor of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, significantly contributed to the English Musical Renaissance. Active during the same period as Edward Elgar, Stanford played a central role in shaping British musical culture through his compositions, which spanned various genres, including choral music. 

“How beauteous are their feet,” composed in 1904, is a striking example of Stanford’s contribution to sacred choral music. This anthem, written for unaccompanied mixed choir, sets a text from the Book of Romans. Stanford’s composition skillfully captures the emotional depth of the biblical verses, creating a work that is both spiritually uplifting and musically engaging. The anthem showcases Stanford’s mastery of choral texture, incorporating expressive harmonies and dynamic contrasts. 

In comparison to his contemporaries, such as Elgar’s sacred choral works or Ralph Vaughan Williams’s anthems, Stanford’s “How beauteous are their feet” stands out for its melodic richness and harmonic sophistication. The work reflects Stanford’s commitment to the Anglican choral tradition, while also embracing Romantic sensibilities. “How beauteous are their feet” remains a testament to Stanford’s enduring impact on English choral music, demonstrating his ability to create compositions that seamlessly blend sacred text with expressive musical language.