June 13th, 2021

The anthem for our 10am service is by Elizabeth Poston (1905-1987). She was an English musician who wrote original instrumental and vocal music, as well as collecting folk melodies and performing as a pianist and harpsichordist. Her many compositions include incidental music for BBC broadcasts, chamber works, and numerous works for voice.

This is one of her best-known works, a setting of the poem “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree.” This anonymous poem was written in the 18th century and has been set to music by a number of composers. Although commonly heard during the Christmas season as a carol, the text also nicely reflects today’s Gospel reading, the parable of the mustard seed (Mark 4:26-34).