September 2023
Just in time for you Christmas planning! A new carol for SATB, capturing the essence of the Christmas story.
Sheet music available here.
Just in time for you Christmas planning! A new carol for SATB, capturing the essence of the Christmas story.
Sheet music available here.
August 2023
A song for communion time, This is the Bread, now available
A song for communion time, This is the Bread, now available
July 2023
Where Two or Three are Gathered, performed at the ICMA Summer School and on RTÉ national television, is now available to purchase here.
Where Two or Three are Gathered, performed at the ICMA Summer School and on RTÉ national television, is now available to purchase here.
June 2023
A setting of Psalm 27 suitable for use as a gathering song or as a psalm now available on ArrangeMe.
A setting of Psalm 27 suitable for use as a gathering song or as a psalm now available on ArrangeMe.
June 2023
A new setting of the iconic text God Be in My Head for SATB now available. This simple setting would be perfect as a post-Communion reflection or as a stand-alone concert piece.
A new setting of the iconic text God Be in My Head for SATB now available. This simple setting would be perfect as a post-Communion reflection or as a stand-alone concert piece.
May 2023
Thank you to Mr. Gerard Lillis and the Schola Cantorum at St. Finian's Collegel, Mullingar, for the invitation to lead a workshop on liturgical composition. I was delighted to share my experiences with these exceptionally talented students.
Thank you to Mr. Gerard Lillis and the Schola Cantorum at St. Finian's Collegel, Mullingar, for the invitation to lead a workshop on liturgical composition. I was delighted to share my experiences with these exceptionally talented students.
April 2023
An amazing opportunity to supervise the recording of three of my compositions for orchestra by the Prague Philharmonic at Smecky Studios, Prague, Czechia, as part of my post-graduate studies in orchestration at the University of Chichester.
An amazing opportunity to supervise the recording of three of my compositions for orchestra by the Prague Philharmonic at Smecky Studios, Prague, Czechia, as part of my post-graduate studies in orchestration at the University of Chichester.
April 2023
A fine performance by the choir of Scoil Mhuire, Ennistymon, under the direction of their music teacher, Patricia Dooley, of my new composition, May the Road Rise to Meet You. Thanks to Patricia and the school for commissioning this work.
A fine performance by the choir of Scoil Mhuire, Ennistymon, under the direction of their music teacher, Patricia Dooley, of my new composition, May the Road Rise to Meet You. Thanks to Patricia and the school for commissioning this work.
March 2023
A new promotional recording for Festive Blessing had been released by my American publisher GIA here . As always, honoured to be associated with GIA
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February 2023
My association with St. Gregory's Parish, Phoenix AZ continues and my latest commission from the parish was a full Mass setting, the Mass of St. Gregory. This setting for unison choir/ assembly will be available soon. |
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February 2023
I recently attended the 'Emmanuel Concert at the Helix in DCU, Dublin. Students from over 60 secondary schools throughout Ireland performed a varied programme of sacred music. My composition, God Has Given Us the Earth, which was originally commissioned by Veritas for the Grow in Love programme featured. It was heartening to see so many young people involved in this event.
I recently attended the 'Emmanuel Concert at the Helix in DCU, Dublin. Students from over 60 secondary schools throughout Ireland performed a varied programme of sacred music. My composition, God Has Given Us the Earth, which was originally commissioned by Veritas for the Grow in Love programme featured. It was heartening to see so many young people involved in this event.
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February 2023
My arrangement of In the Bleak Midwinter published by Cailíno has been selected to feature in the American Choral Directors Association reading session in Cincinnati. Ohio, US. This is now available in SA and SSA voicing. |
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November 2022
The amazing Cantando choir, (under the direction of Órla Barry) as part of their concert 'Songs of Comfort' performed two of my compositions, Deep Peace and God Will Wipe Away All Tears in the beautiful setting of the chapel of Trinity College, Dublin . |
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August 2022
The Irish Church Music Association provided the music and musicians for the weekly televised Mass on RTE on Sunday 7 August. My Mass of Renewal was among the musical items featured and I was pleased to be involved in the preparation of the music.
The Irish Church Music Association provided the music and musicians for the weekly televised Mass on RTE on Sunday 7 August. My Mass of Renewal was among the musical items featured and I was pleased to be involved in the preparation of the music.
June 2022
Another fine recording from Cailíno Publishers. Rejoice and Be Merry for SSA + piano/organ. Also available in 2-part, SAB and SATB arrangements.
Another fine recording from Cailíno Publishers. Rejoice and Be Merry for SSA + piano/organ. Also available in 2-part, SAB and SATB arrangements.
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June 2022
Two new recordings of my Christmas carol arrangements from Cailino Publishers . Well done Niall Crowley, Brendan Long and team!
Two new recordings of my Christmas carol arrangements from Cailino Publishers . Well done Niall Crowley, Brendan Long and team!
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June 2022
A Festive Blessing and Cantate Domino now available from GIA Music
A Festive Blessing and Cantate Domino now available from GIA Music
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June 2022
Delighted to hear these versions of my composition, The Last Supper, in Polish and Italian!
Delighted to hear these versions of my composition, The Last Supper, in Polish and Italian!
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June 2022
3 new works now available on Youtube. Thanks to Stephen Kernan and Olwen Gately for the multi-tracked vocals
3 new works now available on Youtube. Thanks to Stephen Kernan and Olwen Gately for the multi-tracked vocals
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May 2022
My continued association with the Parish of St. Gregory, Phoenix AZ (USA) as composer-in-residence has inspired many of my recent compositions. Behold What You See, a commission from this parish, is scheduled for publication in Autumn 2022
My continued association with the Parish of St. Gregory, Phoenix AZ (USA) as composer-in-residence has inspired many of my recent compositions. Behold What You See, a commission from this parish, is scheduled for publication in Autumn 2022
February 2022
Preview recording from GIA Music now available for Angels From the Realms of Glory.
Preview recording from GIA Music now available for Angels From the Realms of Glory.
October 2021
Two new compositions for upper voices now available from www.sheetmusicplus.com
Ave Maria
This heartfelt setting of the Ave Maria will be a welcome addition to your choral library. The lyrical melody and expressive accompaniment will ensure a fine performance from your choir. A versatile score allows for a unison, S.A. or S(S). A performance. Equally at home in a concert or liturgical setting. Especially suited to younger voices.
Click on the videos to preview the music.
Tantum Ergo
Inspired by the performance of Les Petits Chanteurs de Saint Marc in the film Les Choristes,(2004) this musical vignette combines melodic simplicity and harmonic expressiveness to produce a work that will be as satisfying to sing as it is to listen to. Originally written for treble voices, the piece will work equally well with any combination of upper voices. The accompaniment is suitable for both organ and piano. A versatile piece for liturgies, concerts or competitions.
Two new compositions for upper voices now available from www.sheetmusicplus.com
Ave Maria
This heartfelt setting of the Ave Maria will be a welcome addition to your choral library. The lyrical melody and expressive accompaniment will ensure a fine performance from your choir. A versatile score allows for a unison, S.A. or S(S). A performance. Equally at home in a concert or liturgical setting. Especially suited to younger voices.
Click on the videos to preview the music.
Tantum Ergo
Inspired by the performance of Les Petits Chanteurs de Saint Marc in the film Les Choristes,(2004) this musical vignette combines melodic simplicity and harmonic expressiveness to produce a work that will be as satisfying to sing as it is to listen to. Originally written for treble voices, the piece will work equally well with any combination of upper voices. The accompaniment is suitable for both organ and piano. A versatile piece for liturgies, concerts or competitions.
September 2021
Exciting news! Three new videos of recent music released on Youtube. Sheet music for these available soon.
Exciting news! Three new videos of recent music released on Youtube. Sheet music for these available soon.
August 2021
Tenor, Stephen Kernan, at a recording session of new music - available soon on Youtube.
Tenor, Stephen Kernan, at a recording session of new music - available soon on Youtube.
June 2021
Two new compositions scheduled for publication by GIA in the fall: Cantate Domino and A Festive Blessing.
Two new compositions scheduled for publication by GIA in the fall: Cantate Domino and A Festive Blessing.
November 2020
Cailíno publishers launch a virtual choir pack for my arrangement of In The Bleak Midwinter. This arrangement is for two-part upper voices. Cailíno’s Virtual Choir Packs provide all the musical resources needed for singers and conductors to record video footage for a virtual choir project. The pack includes digital downloads of the sheet music; links to sing-along videos (score and audio) of each part to share with your singers; synchronised recordings with guidance on how to record; MP3 files of accompaniment parts (where applicable) for inclusion in the virtual performance; comprehensive PDF guidelines for Conductors and Singers; and pre-approved permissions and licences for virtual performances and uploading to online sharing platforms.
Click here for a link to more information .
Cailíno publishers launch a virtual choir pack for my arrangement of In The Bleak Midwinter. This arrangement is for two-part upper voices. Cailíno’s Virtual Choir Packs provide all the musical resources needed for singers and conductors to record video footage for a virtual choir project. The pack includes digital downloads of the sheet music; links to sing-along videos (score and audio) of each part to share with your singers; synchronised recordings with guidance on how to record; MP3 files of accompaniment parts (where applicable) for inclusion in the virtual performance; comprehensive PDF guidelines for Conductors and Singers; and pre-approved permissions and licences for virtual performances and uploading to online sharing platforms.
Click here for a link to more information .
November 2020
Publication of one of a recently-composed carol, Rejoice and Be Merry is scheduled for publication by GIA in spring 2021.
Publication of one of a recently-composed carol, Rejoice and Be Merry is scheduled for publication by GIA in spring 2021.
October 2020
Two new Christmas arrangements for female voices (SSA) are now available from Sheetmusicplus.com: Ding Dong Merrily on High and Silent Night. They are suitable for both youth and adult choirs. Click on the song title to preview and purchase.
Two new Christmas arrangements for female voices (SSA) are now available from Sheetmusicplus.com: Ding Dong Merrily on High and Silent Night. They are suitable for both youth and adult choirs. Click on the song title to preview and purchase.
August 2020
My arrangement of In The Bleak Midwinter for S/A voices and piano( + ww) is now available from Cailíno here.
'Bernard Sexton takes the exquisite pairing of Christina Rosetti’s text and Gustav Holst’s iconic tune and reimagines the work for 2-part choir, piano and optional woodwind solo. The result is stunning! The piano accompaniment has a graceful and soothing character and deftly supports the choral lines throughout. Both vocal parts present the tune during the first verse, with the last two verses featuring a harmony line in the lower part, which compliments the tune wonderfully. Where a woodwind instrument in C is available to the ensemble there is scope for even more timbre, melodic interest and harmonic colour.
A special and evocative piece suitable for all Christmas services and concerts'
My arrangement of In The Bleak Midwinter for S/A voices and piano( + ww) is now available from Cailíno here.
'Bernard Sexton takes the exquisite pairing of Christina Rosetti’s text and Gustav Holst’s iconic tune and reimagines the work for 2-part choir, piano and optional woodwind solo. The result is stunning! The piano accompaniment has a graceful and soothing character and deftly supports the choral lines throughout. Both vocal parts present the tune during the first verse, with the last two verses featuring a harmony line in the lower part, which compliments the tune wonderfully. Where a woodwind instrument in C is available to the ensemble there is scope for even more timbre, melodic interest and harmonic colour.
A special and evocative piece suitable for all Christmas services and concerts'
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July 2020
America's leading distributor of choral music, J.W. Pepper nominates three of my pieces as 'Editor's Choice' .
The Last Supper
God Be In My Head
May the Lord Bless you and Keep You
'Pepper's Editors' Choice Recorded Choral Series guides you to the very best new choral music, handpicked by our music review team for your consideration. With literally thousands of new choral works published each year, we provide this service to help direct you to music that will resonate well with many choirs.'
America's leading distributor of choral music, J.W. Pepper nominates three of my pieces as 'Editor's Choice' .
The Last Supper
God Be In My Head
May the Lord Bless you and Keep You
'Pepper's Editors' Choice Recorded Choral Series guides you to the very best new choral music, handpicked by our music review team for your consideration. With literally thousands of new choral works published each year, we provide this service to help direct you to music that will resonate well with many choirs.'
July 2020
The Allegro series for more advanced choral groups has just been launched. Six new pieces from this series are now available at www.sheetmusicplus.com
She Walks in Beauty
The text by Lord Byron is transformed into a beautiful lyrical melody which is underscored by gentle, lush harmonies in the accompanying voices. This atmospheric piece is suitable for the concert platform or for use as a test piece in competitions. .
I Am Not Yours
An atmospheric, gentle setting of this text by Sara Teasdale for SATB divisi unaccompanied. The text is treated with great sensitivity and features word painting throughout. The contrast in dynamics and the melodic and rhythmic interest in the vocal parts ensure that this will be a piece your choir will want to perform again and again! Suitable for the concert platform or for use as a competition test piece. .
Down By The Sally Gardens
This new setting of the text by W. B. Yeats features a lyrical melody in the soprano part, with simple homophonic accompaniment in the other parts. Many of the musical motifs repeat in the music, and much of the vocal writing is stepwise, making this setting easy to learn, but a joy to perform!
This Marriage
A simple homophonic setting for SATB of this classic text suitable for weddings and civil partnerships. This expressive, chant-like music is particularly suitable for smaller vocal ensembles.
Now You Will Feel No Rain
A beautiful, warm setting of this folk text. Intended for use at weddings or civil partnerships, the piece may be effectively performed by a small vocal ensemble (SATB min 4 voices in total)
The Song of Wandering Aengus
This new setting of the text by W.B. Yeats tells of the Celtic hero Aengus and his experience of love. The simple original folk-style melody is underscored by mystical harmonies which will plunge your singers and listeners deep into Celtic mist!
Suitable for the concert platform and for use as a test piece for a competition. .
The Allegro series for more advanced choral groups has just been launched. Six new pieces from this series are now available at www.sheetmusicplus.com
She Walks in Beauty
The text by Lord Byron is transformed into a beautiful lyrical melody which is underscored by gentle, lush harmonies in the accompanying voices. This atmospheric piece is suitable for the concert platform or for use as a test piece in competitions. .
I Am Not Yours
An atmospheric, gentle setting of this text by Sara Teasdale for SATB divisi unaccompanied. The text is treated with great sensitivity and features word painting throughout. The contrast in dynamics and the melodic and rhythmic interest in the vocal parts ensure that this will be a piece your choir will want to perform again and again! Suitable for the concert platform or for use as a competition test piece. .
Down By The Sally Gardens
This new setting of the text by W. B. Yeats features a lyrical melody in the soprano part, with simple homophonic accompaniment in the other parts. Many of the musical motifs repeat in the music, and much of the vocal writing is stepwise, making this setting easy to learn, but a joy to perform!
This Marriage
A simple homophonic setting for SATB of this classic text suitable for weddings and civil partnerships. This expressive, chant-like music is particularly suitable for smaller vocal ensembles.
Now You Will Feel No Rain
A beautiful, warm setting of this folk text. Intended for use at weddings or civil partnerships, the piece may be effectively performed by a small vocal ensemble (SATB min 4 voices in total)
The Song of Wandering Aengus
This new setting of the text by W.B. Yeats tells of the Celtic hero Aengus and his experience of love. The simple original folk-style melody is underscored by mystical harmonies which will plunge your singers and listeners deep into Celtic mist!
Suitable for the concert platform and for use as a test piece for a competition. .
July 2020
Four new sacred compositions are now available from www.sheetmusicplus.com as part of the Lauda series.
Four new sacred compositions are now available from www.sheetmusicplus.com as part of the Lauda series.
Come to the Table
Based on John 15 and the Office Antiphon, this piece is intended for communion time. Given that many parish choirs. often have few male singers, the vocal arrangement of this piece is for SA+Men. The simple melody of the refrain is bound to appeal to your congregation and your choir will enjoy the simplicity of the vocal arrangement. The instrumental parts (violin + ww in C) are not essential to the performance of this piece but will add musical interest if forces are available.
A Festive Blessing
This joyful choral work, based on the Lorica of St Patrick, is intended for general liturgical use or may be used as a competition piece. The piece may be accompanied by piano or organ. Though harmonically rich, the vocal parts are very straightforward with melodic vocal parts and straight-forward, catchy, repetitive rhythms - this makes the work easy to learn and to perform. A very impressive performance can be achieved with minimal rehearsal time (Now available from GIA)
Cantate Domino
This gathering song based on psalms 97/99/116 is intended to be multi-functional, recognising the diverse forces in parishes. The catchy, dance-like rhythms will easily be learned by choirs and assemblies. The piece can be performed effectively in unison, 2-part, 3 part or SATB and arrangements are provided for all of these. Additional instrumental parts and alternative accompaniments for verses will add interest and variety if required. The refrain alone may be repeated, Taizé like, with alternating dynamics and instrumental parts (Now available from GIA)
Tota Pulchra Es
This atmospheric setting for SATB divisi unaccompanied . The ethereal opening gives way to a lyrical melody sung by a solo soprano voice. A contrasting middle section gives all voice parts and opportunity to shine, before the mood of the opening section is re-established and the piece ends serenely. This setting is suitable for liturgical or non-faith contexts and would be an effective competition piece.
July 2020
Delighted to have received commissions for new music from St. Gregory Parish in Phoenix, AZ (USA). My compositions will be used at liturgies in the parish under the direction of Gregg Schockman, Director of Music. One if the pieces, Behold What You See, is dedicated to Fr. Alex Juguilon OSC, and is based on a text attributed to St. Augustine.
Behold what you see;
receive what you behold;
become what you receive;
the body of Christ.
Delighted to have received commissions for new music from St. Gregory Parish in Phoenix, AZ (USA). My compositions will be used at liturgies in the parish under the direction of Gregg Schockman, Director of Music. One if the pieces, Behold What You See, is dedicated to Fr. Alex Juguilon OSC, and is based on a text attributed to St. Augustine.
Behold what you see;
receive what you behold;
become what you receive;
the body of Christ.
July 2020
Cailíno Music has just published two more of my recent compositions, Ubi Caritas and Ave Maria
"Some things are simply greater than the sum of their parts and Bernard Sexton’s Ubi Caritas seems to fit perfectly into this category. The choral parts are constructed from the simplest of means but when performed together they produce music of immense beauty and emotion. The text is handled consummately with ebb and flow of mood and colour adding further to the allure of the piece. This is a piece destined to be in the choral library of many church and community mixed-voice choirs worldwide."
"Much like Sexton’s sublime setting of Ubi Caritas, this piece creates choral beauty through the simplest of means. Triadic chords in the lower parts anchor the harmony above which the melody laps and flows in the Soprano line. In simple ABA form, the middle section provides contrast, with more intensity and dynamic range than the opening. A series of sequences brings the section to a triumphal end on the word ‘Jesu’ before the music recedes and returns to the motifs of the opening, the piece ending with a coda of quiet strength and warmth. A fantastic choice for an offertory or communion reflection or within a concert programme."
June 2020
PRESS RELEASE
Irish Composer Pens New Song of Comfort for Victims of Covid -19
The Dublin-based composer Bernard Sexton has written a Song of Comfort for the victims of Covid-19, their families and friends. This has been recorded by a virtual choir consisting of members of a number of Dublin choirs, some singers who sent recordings from other countries and frontline staff based in Ireland.
The song is a tribute to those affected by Covid-19 and it is hoped that it will be a useful resource for memorial services in the coming months. To this end an MP3 file of the song and sheet music will be available free to download
The words of the new song , God Will Wipe Away All Tears, are based on sacred texts, but touch on universal themes of the cycle of life, the importance of remembering those who have died and the comfort of memories for those who survive.
Video here
GOD WILL WIPE AWAY ALL TEARS
God will wipe away all tearS
God will bring you home
To the place he has prepared for you
You shall never be alone
Storms may gather, evening fall
Daylight turn to shade
And when you earthly work is done
Do not fear, be not afraid.
There’s a time for everything
A time to be born
There’s a time to dance, to laugh
A time to weep, a time to mourn
Every plant that fades and dies
Is part of the Lord’s plan
When we die, we live anew
In God we are reborn.
Lovely is your dwelling place
O Lord God of hosts
How my soul clings to you
Close to the living God
Like the sparrow finds a home
The swallow finds a nest
So I’ll find a place with God
With him I shall be blessed.
God will wipe away all tears
And death shall be no more
Alpha and Omega
Beginning and the end
Though we walk in death’s dark vale
No evil shall we fear
God is there, our Shepherd, Lord
Our Comforter is here.
PRESS RELEASE
Irish Composer Pens New Song of Comfort for Victims of Covid -19
The Dublin-based composer Bernard Sexton has written a Song of Comfort for the victims of Covid-19, their families and friends. This has been recorded by a virtual choir consisting of members of a number of Dublin choirs, some singers who sent recordings from other countries and frontline staff based in Ireland.
The song is a tribute to those affected by Covid-19 and it is hoped that it will be a useful resource for memorial services in the coming months. To this end an MP3 file of the song and sheet music will be available free to download
The words of the new song , God Will Wipe Away All Tears, are based on sacred texts, but touch on universal themes of the cycle of life, the importance of remembering those who have died and the comfort of memories for those who survive.
Video here
GOD WILL WIPE AWAY ALL TEARS
God will wipe away all tearS
God will bring you home
To the place he has prepared for you
You shall never be alone
Storms may gather, evening fall
Daylight turn to shade
And when you earthly work is done
Do not fear, be not afraid.
There’s a time for everything
A time to be born
There’s a time to dance, to laugh
A time to weep, a time to mourn
Every plant that fades and dies
Is part of the Lord’s plan
When we die, we live anew
In God we are reborn.
Lovely is your dwelling place
O Lord God of hosts
How my soul clings to you
Close to the living God
Like the sparrow finds a home
The swallow finds a nest
So I’ll find a place with God
With him I shall be blessed.
God will wipe away all tears
And death shall be no more
Alpha and Omega
Beginning and the end
Though we walk in death’s dark vale
No evil shall we fear
God is there, our Shepherd, Lord
Our Comforter is here.
February 2020
GIA has released two promotional recordings and scores of two new works, Do Not Be Afraid and In Paradisum.
Click on the titles to preview this music.
GIA has released two promotional recordings and scores of two new works, Do Not Be Afraid and In Paradisum.
Click on the titles to preview this music.
My arrangement for SATB+ piano of Wayfaring Stranger, inspired by the film 1917 is now available here .
Prayer of St. Patrick, features on the CD, A Crown of Rejoicing,
of St. John's Episcopal Church. Boulder, Colorado, US.
The recording is available on Spotify.
Cailino have just published my SSA arrangement of Suantraí Chríost. It is available here.
Bernard Sexton takes this popular Scottish tune and treats us to a beautiful new setting for upper-voice choir and piano. The arrangement is clearly inspired by the folk melody, the piano part has harp-like quality and is full of traditional inflections. The choral parts are exquisite with counter-melodies and even an optional descant further accentuating the tune in the last verse. With lyrics in both Irish and English, this is a perfect option for upper-voice choirs of all types
Bernard Sexton takes this popular Scottish tune and treats us to a beautiful new setting for upper-voice choir and piano. The arrangement is clearly inspired by the folk melody, the piano part has harp-like quality and is full of traditional inflections. The choral parts are exquisite with counter-melodies and even an optional descant further accentuating the tune in the last verse. With lyrics in both Irish and English, this is a perfect option for upper-voice choirs of all types
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January 2020
Though We Are Many , commissioned for the International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin in 2012, featured as a part of the liturgies during the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis to Thailand in November 2019. A congregation of 50,000 assembled for the Mass at Supachalasai National Stadium. |
Cailino have just published my new setting of O Magnum Mysterium. It is available here. Bernard Sexton achieves something special in this new setting of the well-known Christmas text by creating a sophisticated sound that is easily achieved by most mixed-voice choirs. The core of the sound is created in the lower parts; the harmony contemporary and opulent and created using a simplicity of means, allowing singers to hear and enjoy the gently moving chords. Gliding above these warm sonorities we hear a captivating tune placed in the soprano line. The overall effect is reflective and meditative with moments of majesty and richness. |
December 2019
Three new compositions will be premiered this Christmas in Dublin. The Park Singers will perform his new works for female chorus, Exulta Filia Sion and Ave Maris Stella,at their Christmas concert in Christchurch Cathedral, Dublin 8 on Sunday 15 December at 8pm. Rejoice and Be Merry , recently published by Cailino, will receive its first Dublin outing at the Dolce concert on Thursday 12 December at the Church of Our Lady. Mother of Divine Grace, Dublin 5 . This carol will also be performed by a number of choirs in premiere performances throughout Ireland over the Christmas season. |
October 2019
Some of Dublin's finest male voices have gathered to create a new choral ensemble Aeterna. The choir will appear as guest artists at two concerts over the Christmas season.
Dolce Christmas Concert 12 December - Raheny Church, Dublin 5
Cantando Christmas Concert 16 December - St Raphaela's School, Stillorgan, Co. Dublin
Some of Dublin's finest male voices have gathered to create a new choral ensemble Aeterna. The choir will appear as guest artists at two concerts over the Christmas season.
Dolce Christmas Concert 12 December - Raheny Church, Dublin 5
Cantando Christmas Concert 16 December - St Raphaela's School, Stillorgan, Co. Dublin
August 2019
The Mass of St. Colman , written to celebrate the centenary of St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh, Co Cork, is premiered by Cobh Cathedral choir and brass ensemble. Music by Irish composers John O' Keeffe and Liam Lawton also featured. British composer , Philip Stopford, attended the ceremony and two of his works were performed at communion time.
The Mass of St. Colman , written to celebrate the centenary of St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh, Co Cork, is premiered by Cobh Cathedral choir and brass ensemble. Music by Irish composers John O' Keeffe and Liam Lawton also featured. British composer , Philip Stopford, attended the ceremony and two of his works were performed at communion time.
Presenting the Mass of St. Colman to Most Reverend Willaim Crean, Bishop of Cloyne.
With Pa O' Donoghue,
one of the choristers from Cobh Cathedral choir.
one of the choristers from Cobh Cathedral choir.
July 2019
Musicians from all over the United States will be gathering in Raleigh, North Carolina on Thursday, July 18th for the National Association of Pastoral Musicians Annual Convention.
GIA will present one of my recent compositions, Hush My Dear, at this convention.
Musicians from all over the United States will be gathering in Raleigh, North Carolina on Thursday, July 18th for the National Association of Pastoral Musicians Annual Convention.
GIA will present one of my recent compositions, Hush My Dear, at this convention.
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July 2019
Delighted to catch up with old friends at the ICMA Summer School: Fr. Michael Joncas, guest director at the ICMA Summer School, and Sarah Waldron, one of Ireland's leading vocalists, who co-facilitated my workshops. |
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June 2019
GIA has scheduled publication of two of my recent compositions by Bernard for 2020: an SATB motet In Paradisum and Do No Be Afraid, a hymn for general liturgical use which will feature as part of Bernard's workshop at the ICMA Summer School.
GIA has scheduled publication of two of my recent compositions by Bernard for 2020: an SATB motet In Paradisum and Do No Be Afraid, a hymn for general liturgical use which will feature as part of Bernard's workshop at the ICMA Summer School.
June 2019
I will be giving a workshop on his new music at the ICMA Summer School, Maynooth , Co. Kildare on Wednesday 3 July.
My setting of the Ave Verum will feature at a special concert of Marian motets during the summer school.
I will be giving a workshop on his new music at the ICMA Summer School, Maynooth , Co. Kildare on Wednesday 3 July.
My setting of the Ave Verum will feature at a special concert of Marian motets during the summer school.
April 2019
Three new compositions are scheduled for publication by Cailíno publishers. These will be available in the autumn.
Three new compositions are scheduled for publication by Cailíno publishers. These will be available in the autumn.
- Suantraí Chríost- an S(S)A accompanied setting of this classic Scots Gaelic Christmas carol
- Ubi Caritas - an SATB a cappella setting of this Latin text
- In the Bleak Midwinter - an SA accompanied setting of the text by Christina Rosetti
April 2019
- My Mass of St. Colman is published today. This Mass setting will be learned by parishes in the Diocese of Cloyne, Co Cork. The official premier performance will take on August 25 2019 as part of the centenary celebrations at Cobh Cathedral.
April 2019
America's leading distributor of choral music, J.W. Pepper has nominated two of my new Christmas pieces as 'Editor's Choice' .
G-9783 Love Came Down at Christmas
G-9784 O Little Town of Bethlehem
America's leading distributor of choral music, J.W. Pepper has nominated two of my new Christmas pieces as 'Editor's Choice' .
G-9783 Love Came Down at Christmas
G-9784 O Little Town of Bethlehem
March 2019
GIA releases promotional recordings of 3 of my recent compositions for Christmas Hush My Dear, O Little Town of Bethlehem and Love Came Down at Christmas.
Cailíno Music Publishers schedule two of Bernard's compositions for publication in summer 2019, Ave Maria and O Magnum Mysterium .
GIA releases promotional recordings of 3 of my recent compositions for Christmas Hush My Dear, O Little Town of Bethlehem and Love Came Down at Christmas.
Cailíno Music Publishers schedule two of Bernard's compositions for publication in summer 2019, Ave Maria and O Magnum Mysterium .
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January 2019
The music mixing begins for Grow in Love- 6th class - lots of new arrangements by myself of sacred classics by or use in Irish schools, and some newly commissioned pieces will be included too. The book and accompanying CD are scheduled for release in September 2019. This will be the final book/ CD in the new religion programme.
Music from 3rd class here on Spotify
Music from 4th class here on Spotify
Graham Watson (sound engineer/ manager Flood Plains Studios, Clontarf, Dublin) and Fran Hegarty (producer) pictured.
January 2019
The music mixing begins for Grow in Love- 6th class - lots of new arrangements by myself of sacred classics by or use in Irish schools, and some newly commissioned pieces will be included too. The book and accompanying CD are scheduled for release in September 2019. This will be the final book/ CD in the new religion programme.
Music from 3rd class here on Spotify
Music from 4th class here on Spotify
Graham Watson (sound engineer/ manager Flood Plains Studios, Clontarf, Dublin) and Fran Hegarty (producer) pictured.
January 2019
My arrangement of Molly Malone has just been published by Calino and is available here.
Publisher's note:
'Charming, whimsical, melodramatic and most of all fun is how best to describe Bernard Sexton’s wonderful arrangement of this well-known Irish folksong. Beginning with playful accompanying lines across the parts, the music gives the impression of Molly and her family skipping into work each day, until the moment she catches a fever at which point the mood quickly changes. A fantastic piece to inject a fun element into your concert or festival programme!'
My arrangement of Molly Malone has just been published by Calino and is available here.
Publisher's note:
'Charming, whimsical, melodramatic and most of all fun is how best to describe Bernard Sexton’s wonderful arrangement of this well-known Irish folksong. Beginning with playful accompanying lines across the parts, the music gives the impression of Molly and her family skipping into work each day, until the moment she catches a fever at which point the mood quickly changes. A fantastic piece to inject a fun element into your concert or festival programme!'
November 2018
GIA releases a new promotional recording of Take, Lord , and Receive .
GIA releases a new promotional recording of Take, Lord , and Receive .
November 2018
Ireland's newest publisher of Irish choral music is launched. Two of my works featured. Further works are scheduled for publication in 2019.
Rejoice and Be Merry - A Gallery Carol - a new setting of this classic text for SATB voices
Click here to view/ buy
Ireland's newest publisher of Irish choral music is launched. Two of my works featured. Further works are scheduled for publication in 2019.
Rejoice and Be Merry - A Gallery Carol - a new setting of this classic text for SATB voices
Click here to view/ buy
Huron Carol - an arrangement of this Canadian carol commissioned for the
Grow in Love programme ( Veritas) - available in SA/ SSA and SAB voicings
Click here to view/ buy
Grow in Love programme ( Veritas) - available in SA/ SSA and SAB voicings
Click here to view/ buy
November 2018
GIA Music announces the publication of three new Christmas settings : Hush My Dear, Love Came Down at Christmas and O Little Town of Bethlehem. (see Listen/ Buy page for links)
GIA Music announces the publication of three new Christmas settings : Hush My Dear, Love Came Down at Christmas and O Little Town of Bethlehem. (see Listen/ Buy page for links)
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20 October 2018
Some of Ireland's finest musical talent assembles in St. Mary's Oratory , Maynooth, Co Kildare, to record the CD to accompany my recently commissioned setting of the Mass in the Irish language, Aifreann Phobal De. The full score and CD will be included in a compilation of settings in the Irish language Canaimis- Ceol don Aifreann , which will be published by Veritas in autumn 2018.
Sound engineer: Brian McIvor
Music director: Fr. Paul Kenny
Organ : Prof. Gerard Gillen
Some of Ireland's finest musical talent assembles in St. Mary's Oratory , Maynooth, Co Kildare, to record the CD to accompany my recently commissioned setting of the Mass in the Irish language, Aifreann Phobal De. The full score and CD will be included in a compilation of settings in the Irish language Canaimis- Ceol don Aifreann , which will be published by Veritas in autumn 2018.
Sound engineer: Brian McIvor
Music director: Fr. Paul Kenny
Organ : Prof. Gerard Gillen
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26 July 2018 - The premiere of the short film Chimes (for which I composed the music) at the Dun Laoghaire Film Festival today
5 July 2018 - Delighted to direct a workshop for participants from all over Ireland at the Music Ministry Together in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary. The focus of this workshop was on new music suitable for liturgical use, which I composed especially for the Grow in Love programme ( published by Veritas) and used in all Irish catholic primary schools.
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July 2018- I am delighted to have three of my compositions accepted for the new Irish music publisher, Callino, which is based in Co. Waterford. Callino will be publishing the full score of my arrangement of The Huron Carol which features in the Grow in Love programme for primary schools.
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25 June 2018 the Diocese of Cloyne announced Irish composer, Mr Bernard Sexton, as the winner of the Sacred Music competition for a Setting of the Mass.
The Sacred Music Competition was launched last year prior to the Centenary of the consecration of St. Colman’s Cathedral, which will be celebrated in August 2019. For the occasion, the Diocese of Cloyne called upon Irish composers to compose a “Mass of St Colman 2018”. The competition was judged by Dr. John O Keeffe, Director of Choral Groups, Maynooth University, Dr. Ite O’Donovan of the Dublin Choral Foundation and Mr. Andrew Reid of The Royal School of Church Music. Most Rev William Crean, Bishop of Cloyne, presented €5,000 to Mr Sexton for his works.
At the announcement, Most Rev William Crean, Bishop of Cloyne, said; “This Mass setting will be one of the many ways of uniting all parishes with the Cathedral church of the diocese. It is anticipated that this Mass setting will be used for appropriate ceremonies in parishes in 2019 leading up to the centenary celebrations. Parishes will have the opportunity to become familiar with the Mass setting through a programme of meetings, workshops and choir days.”
Commenting on the winning entry Dr. O’Keeffe said “This was the setting that most comprehensively fulfilled the brief. Strongly melodic with a solid harmonic underpinning and imaginatively festive with plenty of accompanimental and textural variety. It is recognisably Irish, displaying a good sense of the requirements of liturgy and the realities of congregational participation. We can imagine a range of diocesan congregations singing this Mass”.
The first major performance of the “Mass of St Colman 2018” will be in August 2019 to coincide with the centenary of the consecration of the Cathedral and rededication of the restored pipe organ. Towards the end of 2015, the Telford & Telford organ in the Cathedral of Cobh was dismantled and sent to the Ruffatti workshops in Padua for restoration. The restored pipe organ will be rededicated at the centenary Mass in August 2019.
The Sacred Music Competition was launched last year prior to the Centenary of the consecration of St. Colman’s Cathedral, which will be celebrated in August 2019. For the occasion, the Diocese of Cloyne called upon Irish composers to compose a “Mass of St Colman 2018”. The competition was judged by Dr. John O Keeffe, Director of Choral Groups, Maynooth University, Dr. Ite O’Donovan of the Dublin Choral Foundation and Mr. Andrew Reid of The Royal School of Church Music. Most Rev William Crean, Bishop of Cloyne, presented €5,000 to Mr Sexton for his works.
At the announcement, Most Rev William Crean, Bishop of Cloyne, said; “This Mass setting will be one of the many ways of uniting all parishes with the Cathedral church of the diocese. It is anticipated that this Mass setting will be used for appropriate ceremonies in parishes in 2019 leading up to the centenary celebrations. Parishes will have the opportunity to become familiar with the Mass setting through a programme of meetings, workshops and choir days.”
Commenting on the winning entry Dr. O’Keeffe said “This was the setting that most comprehensively fulfilled the brief. Strongly melodic with a solid harmonic underpinning and imaginatively festive with plenty of accompanimental and textural variety. It is recognisably Irish, displaying a good sense of the requirements of liturgy and the realities of congregational participation. We can imagine a range of diocesan congregations singing this Mass”.
The first major performance of the “Mass of St Colman 2018” will be in August 2019 to coincide with the centenary of the consecration of the Cathedral and rededication of the restored pipe organ. Towards the end of 2015, the Telford & Telford organ in the Cathedral of Cobh was dismantled and sent to the Ruffatti workshops in Padua for restoration. The restored pipe organ will be rededicated at the centenary Mass in August 2019.
May 2018 - The music for the World Meeting of Families is announced. My music will feature at all of the liturgies.
Wednesday 22nd August 2018
Theme: FAITH
Sanctus Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Memorial Acclamation Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton
Doxology Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Communion Though We Are Many (Bernard Sexton)
Thursday 23 August 2018
Theme: LOVE
Sanctus Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Memorial Acclamation Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton
Doxology Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Communion God’s Holy Gifts (Bernard Sexton)
Friday 24th August 2018
Theme: HOPE
Sanctus Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Memorial Acclamation Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton
Doxology Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Communion Songs Críost Liom (Bernard Sexton)
The Last Supper (Bernard Sexton)
Sunday 26th August 2018
Papal Mass
CommunionThe Last Supper (Bernard Sexton)
Wednesday 22nd August 2018
Theme: FAITH
Sanctus Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Memorial Acclamation Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton
Doxology Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Communion Though We Are Many (Bernard Sexton)
Thursday 23 August 2018
Theme: LOVE
Sanctus Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Memorial Acclamation Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton
Doxology Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Communion God’s Holy Gifts (Bernard Sexton)
Friday 24th August 2018
Theme: HOPE
Sanctus Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Memorial Acclamation Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton
Doxology Mass of Renewal (Bernard Sexton)
Communion Songs Críost Liom (Bernard Sexton)
The Last Supper (Bernard Sexton)
Sunday 26th August 2018
Papal Mass
CommunionThe Last Supper (Bernard Sexton)
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April 2018
Grow in Love 7 for primary school (for which I am Music Director) is published. This contains new arrangements of old favorites such as Song for a Young Prophet and The Servant Song. New songs commissioned for this publication include God Has Given Us the Earth and Who Do You Say that I Am? The arrangement of The Huron Carol will soon be available from Calino Music Publishers |
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January 2018
GIA, Chicago, announces the publication of a new composition Deep Peace, a setting of an old Irish blessing. Deep peace Of the running wave to you Deep peace Of the flowing air to you Deep peace Of the quiet earth to you Deep peace Of the shining stars to you Deep peace Of the gentle night to you Moon and stars Pour their healing light on you Deep peace , deep peace, deep peace. |
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