SATB, piano
“Hear me, four quarters of the world. A relative I am!” This profound statement of the prayer of Sioux Indian Black Elk dramatically begins this piece. Upbeat in tempo, with a spirited piano or organ accompaniment and harmonic color, this text speaks of peace and humanity.
Program Note
Prayer of Black Elk is a setting of an English translation of the prayer by the Sioux leader, Black Elk.
Notes on preparation and performance
May be performed with piano or organ – select the accompaniment version you would like.
Text
Hear me four quarters of the world.
A relative I am!
Give me the strength to walk the soft earth.
Give me the eyes to see and the strength to understand.
Look upon these faces of children without number,
that they may face the winds
and walk the good road till the day of quiet.
This is my prayer; hear me.