New Lent & Easter Choral Anthems for 2026 | J.W. Pepper Editors’ Choice Favorites
We’re excited to share a handpicked list of brand-new Lent and Easter choral selections chosen from the latest additions to our Editors’ Choice library.
These anthems are perfect for the entire season, beginning with Ash Wednesday and Lent, continuing through Palm Sunday and Holy Week, and culminating in joyful Easter anthems that proclaim the Resurrection. You’ll find music in a variety of styles and voicings, including festive Palm Sunday selections with handbells and children’s voices that bring added color and celebration to worship.
Each anthem featured is linked directly below along with access to the full J.W. Pepper Editors’ Choice library, where you’ll discover even more expertly curated choral music for worship throughout the year.
Lead Me to Calvary
arr. Howard Helvey
Expressive and elegant, this chorale prelude rendition of the well-known hymn pairs beautiful vocal lines with counterpoint in the piano. The vocal simplicity of the hymn tune is retained, and a stunning, refined accompaniment has been added.
Starts at 0:38
The Weeping Garden
Joseph M. Martin & Jonathan Martin
Bittersweet and tender, this scene from Gethsemane is a portrait of grace. The primary melody, set in minor, displays power through simplicity, while the emotive refrain carries the prayer of Jesus: “Father, let this cup pass me.” A deeply moving message for this important moment in the life and ministry of the Savior.
Starts at 1:23
Psalm of Repentance
Lee Dengler
Rooted in the words of Psalm 51, this moving anthem is especially fitting for Ash Wednesday or any service during Lent. Centered on themes of mercy, forgiveness, and deliverance, the text culminates in a heartfelt declaration of service. The piece closes with a tender, hushed “Amen.”
Starts at 2:21
Open the Gates
Hal H. Hopson/ed. Katie Houts
Based on Psalm 24, this jubilant anthem has flexible voicing, optional handbells or handchimes, and a congregational refrain. It invites the whole church family to join their voices together in praise. New in this edition are an optional text for the Easter season and an expanded handbell part. A true intergenerational celebration!
Starts at 2:52
A Hosanna for Our Time
Karen Marrolli
This very unique anthem is particularly appropriate for Palm Sunday. The composer’s original text based on Zechariah 9:9–12 and Luke 19:28–40 features themes of social justice and the crowd singing “Hosanna” in this powerful piece.
Starts at 3:34
Arise and Sing, Behold the King
Heather Sorenson, Lyricist: Joseph M. Martin
A glowingly joyful processional or anthem for Palm Sunday! With an option for multigenerational participation, this special concept captures the sacred energy of the triumphal entry into the sanctuary with a swaying, lilting theme and resounding hosannas. The optional bells add color, dazzle, and majesty.
Starts at 4:29
Ah, Holy Jesus
arr. Craig Carnahan, Lyricist: Johann Heermann
This poignant arrangement of the beloved hymn features an organ accompaniment that gently underscores the pathos of the text with a sighing motive. The choral writing mirrors the cadence of the hymn with each vocal part sharing the melody. An accessible and moving arrangement for Holy Week.
Starts at 5:25
What Wondrous Love
arr. Joyce Vickery
A captivating piano accompaniment and varied choral textures animate this setting. With the clever use of mode mixture, the text is illuminated with harmonic interest and surprise. This is a fitting anthem for Palm Sunday, Good Friday, or for general use with themes of love, eternal life, and sacrifice.
Starts at 6:05
The Resurrection and the Life!
Lloyd Larson
This uplifting Easter medley combines two beloved hymns: Crown Him with Many Crowns and I Know That My Redeemer Lives. Beautiful choral sonorities, a regal accompaniment, and a majestic finale proclaim the powerful message of Christ’s resurrection. Add the optional trumpet obbligato for an extra festive touch.
Starts at 7:00
Lift High the Cross
Sydney H. Nicholson/arr. Jantz A. Black, Lyricist: George W. Kitchin, rev. Michael Newbolt
This majestic setting beautifully captures the hymn’s core message of celebrating the cross as the ultimate symbol of Christ’s love. An ideal selection for Easter and Eastertide services, this piece will add a sense of awe and reverence to any worship experience.
Starts at 7:50
See, What a Morning (Resurrection Hymn)
Keith Getty & Stuart Townend/arr. Mary McDonald
This radiant Easter anthem is skillfully arranged, proclaiming the risen Christ with joy and power. Reliving the moment when Mary discovers the empty tomb, the piece bursts into a celebration of Christ’s triumph over death. A stirring incorporation of Crown Him with Many Crowns makes this a must-have for Easter morning worship.
Starts at 8:34
Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain
arr. Matthew Machemer
Easter day will resound with the splendor of this festive concertato for choir with brass quintet, timpani, organ, and congregation. The second stanza features a playful trio between two-part choir and the organ. The bright, resounding brass fanfares set the victorious theme, making this piece perfect for celebrating the Resurrection.
Starts at 9:25
