• Text Writer: Olivia Turner
• Worship Use: Thanksgiving/Praise/Choir Dedication
• Vocal Part(s): Unison
• Vocal Range: e-e’
• Key: G major
• Meter: 2/2
• Accompanying Instrument(s): Piano (or organ)

Target Age Group: Grades K-2 or Grades 3-6

Description: Father, Bless the Songs was composed for our Viva Voce curriculum. This sweet, lyrical anthem is ideal as a prayer for Choir Dedication Sunday and/or to be sung as a choral benediction at the conclusion of each week’s rehearsal. Although some of the phrases are somewhat long for younger children, this may serve as a useful vehicle for working on lengthening phrases your younger choristers are comfortable singing.

Anthem Warm-Ups

• bar 5: “Fa-ther” – ascending minor 3rd
• bar 7: “Fa-ther” – ascending major 3rd
• bar 8: “as we sing to you” – ascending/descending minor 3rds  
• bars 9, 10, 11: echoing each interval (experienced choristers should identify each interval by ear)

Teaching Points

• Vocal Production: Learning to sing longer phrases, breath support
• Intervallic Tuning: Tuning melodic intervals
• Interpretation: Singing with dynamics; shaping phrases