Description
Henrietta Moran (née Byrne) was a celebrated Irish soprano whose golden voice became a cherished part of post-war music broadcasting. Born in Moneymore, Co. Derry, into a musical family, Henrietta’s talent was evident early on. After graduating with a Mus.Bac. from Trinity College Dublin in 1940, she emerged as a leading figure in the revival of Northern Ireland’s musical life following World War II. Performing frequently with the BBC in Belfast alongside conductor David Curry and later with the BBC Concert Orchestra under Stanford Robinson, she brought classical Irish songs to audiences around the world through broadcasts like Ulster Magazine.
Moran’s choral work, O Lord, support us is a gentle and reverent setting of a prayer traditionally attributed to John Henry Newman. Scored for SATB choir, the piece is marked by its quiet depth, reflecting the composer’s sensitive and expressive approach to text and harmony.
Its delicate treatment of eventide imagery – ‘the shades lengthen… the busy world is hushed’ – makes it a natural fit for our Fading programme, a collection of works inspired by compline, the final service of the day.
© Owain Park 2025
Text:
O Lord, support us all the day long of this troublous life,
Until the shades lengthen, the evening comes,
The busy world is hushed,
The fever of life is over,
And our work is done.
Then, Lord, in thy mercy
Grant us a safe lodging, a holy rest,
And peace at the last,
Through Jesus Christ our Lord,
Amen.
John Henry Newman
