Anthem Spotlight: Majesty - Jack Hayford-6.19.25

This will be our final Anthem Spotlight, as our Music Director will soon be leaving St. Peter’s. Best wishes to Carol Cei!

As I prepare for my final Sunday at St. Peter’s in Glenside, I have given great thought to what I should choose for the Offertory music. Considering the power and driving forces that keep St. Peter’s always at full speed, there is nothing more appropriate than the beautiful composition known as Majesty. It was composed by Jack Hayford (1934–) in 1977 while he was on a trip to England.

While traveling, Hayford could feel the appreciation the British people showed toward their leaders—those who led them through the darkest hours of England’s existence. As a pastor and religious leader, he drew a parallel to Christ being the leader of the Church, desiring it to have that same sense of dedication and fellowship in all things. Inspired by the pomp, circumstance, and majestic events of the monarchy, he strove to create a piece of music that would show the same ‘majesty’ to Christ, our leader.

There is quite a dramatic opening to the piece. The lowest notes on the piano create a powerful drumroll, typical of tympani. There are martial rhythms characteristic of a fanfare and the suggestion of regal, processional music.

One of Hayford’s favorite scripture verses is from Psalm 93:1 — “The LORD . . . is robed in majesty and is armed with strength.” He has created that picture in his music.