Song 22 of 25

The Song of Moses 

“The Song of Moses” is the triumphant anthem of a people who have witnessed the impossible. The Israelites have crossed through the Red Sea. The waters have collapsed behind them. Pharaoh’s army has vanished beneath the depths. For the first time in their lives, they stand on solid ground with no chains, no masters, and no fear. This song is their collective exhale. It is awe turning into praise, and praise turning into identity.
The piece begins intimately. Moses stands alone, the wind stilled, the sea settling behind him. A single piano and soft strings lay a foundation of reverent quiet.

Song Lyrics

[MOSES:]

“[(sung – reverent, almost whispered, minimal vibrato)]”

“I saw the sea
Hold back its breath
I saw the sky
Give room to death “

“I saw the fire
I saw the way
And I will sing
To God today “

[FIRST REFRAIN]

“I will sing unto the Lord
He has triumphed gloriously
The horse and the rider
Are buried in the sea “

[MOSES:]

“[(Sung – rising; strings swell, piano grows fuller, a gentle pad enters underneath.)] “

“The water stood
The earth was still
He fought with breath
He moved with will “

“He didn’t march
He didn’t plead
He broke the wave
He met the need”

[SECOND REFRAIN]

“I will sing unto the Lord
He has triumphed gloriously
The horse and the rider
He cast into the sea “

[CHORUS ENSEMBLE:]

“[(joins softly, layered “oh”s under Moses. Their sound should feel like dawn rising. Harmonies remain gentle, warm, understated.)]”

[MOSES:]

“[(sung – verse 3; vocal confidence grows. Light percussion enters in soft, heartbeat-like taps. Strings broaden into cinematic lift.)] “

“His right hand
Shakes the throne
He lifts the weak
He walks alone “

“He led us out
With holy flame
He led us here
To praise His name “

[ENSEMBLE]

“[(Now singing with Moses in harmony; voices fuller, standing side by side. Harmonies broaden into gospel-like warmth.)] “

“I will sing unto the Lord
He has triumphed gloriously
The horse and the rider
He cast into the sea “

[BRIDGE]

“[(Call and response. Percussion expands with claps and steady drum hits. Energy builds measure by measure. Ensemble answers Moses with power and clarity.)]”

[MOSES (call):]

“Who makes a way where none could be? “

[CHORUS (response):]

“The Lord of fire, the Lord of sea!”

[MOSES (call):]

“Who breaks the sword, but lifts the slave? “

[CHORUS:]

“The Lord who walks across the grave!”

[MOSES (call):]

“Who holds us up, when breath is gone?”

[CHORUS:]

“The Lord our strength, the Lord our song! “

[FINAL CHORUS]

“I will sing unto the Lord
He has triumphed gloriously
The horse and the rider
Are buried in the sea “

“He is holy, He is flame
He is just, forever the same
He brought us through
He set us free
I will sing – eternally “

[CODA]

“He reigns forever
Over the sea “