Dr. Carly York, principal cantor in St. Mary Parish, Colts Neck, announced the release of her new single, “The King Shall Come,”becameavailable worldwide Nov. 21. The new recording revives a historic American hymn melody and will be debuted live during a signature Advent concert of the same name Nov. 30 at 4 p.m. in St. Mary Church, 1 Phalanx Rd., Colts Neck.
The concert, “The King Shall Come: An Evening of Song & Scripture,”weaves together Advent Scripture prophecies, sacred solos, organ works and rich instrumental solos, Dr. York explained. Designed as a 45-minute immersive spiritual and artistic experience, it will feature Dr. York(vocals), Andrew Macirowski (organ), and Adrienne Foutz (oboe and English horn). The event will be livestreamed globally on the Catholic Cantor YouTube Channel, immediately followed by an artist’s reception.
“Advent is a time of hope, mystery, and music that stirs the soul. I am so excited to introduce people to the deep beauty of this rarely performed Advent hymn,” said Dr. York. I purposefully created a stark arrangement of organ drone, flute harmony, and prominent vocals for the recorded single so that the haunting melody and prophetic lyrics could truly resonate.”
The single “The King Shall Come” is based on a melody likely composed by Elkanah Kelsey Dare (1782–1826), a New Jersey-born Presbyterian minister, and “shaped-note composer” affiliated with John Wyeth’s “Repository of Sacred Music,” Part Second (1813). The tune, now known as “Morning Song,” is among the rare early American melodies embraced internationally. Its poignant lyrics were penned by Scottish minister John Brownlie in 1907, blending ancient Greek liturgical inspiration with original poetic composition.
Concert Highlights Include:“Veni Emmanuel” (Pietro Yon) – Introit; “The King Shall Come” – vocal premiere with English horn; “Ave Maria” and “Rorate Coeli” – organ solos by Pietro Yon; Scripture Readings from Jeremiah, Isaiah, Luke and Revelation; Handel’s “Rejoice Greatly,” vocal solo; Finale trio: “Gesu Bambino” by Pietro Yon with voice, oboe and organ
The event is both free and open to the public, welcoming families, parishioners, and music lovers of all backgrounds to gather in anticipation of the Advent season.