Exult! Have you started practicing yet?

It’s never too early, brother deacons.

Here’s part of a commentary on this great chant, from the Rev. Michael J. Flynn, from the USCCB website: 

As is fitting for a text of this importance and solemnity, the Exsultet should always be sung – unless singing it worthily would be truly impossible. The chant notation in the Missal is not difficult to sing, but the Easter Proclamation is lengthy, so preparation and practice well in advance is essential. It is also important to take note of the rubrical instructions concerning the Exsultet which are contained in the Missal. Deciding which of the various options best suits a given community and the capabilities of its ministers will go a long way to ensuring a rendition of the Exsultet which is both dignified and evocative of joy.

As the rubrics indicate, intoning the Exsultet is primarily the responsibility of the deacon. In the absence of a deacon, it may also be sung either by the priest who is presiding, or by a concelebrant. However, if local circumstances suggest it, the instructions also permit the intoning of the Exsultet by a lay cantor, with certain indicated portions of the text being omitted. Finally, if the length of text proves daunting, the Missal also contains an abbreviated form of the Exsultet. These various options, together with the determination of which ministers will execute them, should be discussed early in the planning stages, and never left to chance at the last minute.

Check out this excellent rendition, via YouTube, and good luck!

Meantime, the curious—or masochistic—might appreciate this version by Your Humble Blogger, from a few years back. Josh Groban has nothing to worry about.

https://www.facebook.com/regina.faighes/videos/10153198713848967/