Inspired by the timeless plea for peace found in the evocative poetry of John Oxenham and Psalm 122, Peace in Our Time was commissioned by Armonico Consort for the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz. It is a moving reflection on humanity’s enduring hope for reconciliation and stillness amidst turmoil.
The piece opens in hushed reverence: distant strings, an organ pedal and militaristic snare drum create a fragile atmosphere, reflecting on the horrors of war that have stained humanity. A solitary trumpet emerges with a poignant solo, echoing both a lament and a call - a voice searching for peace. This sets the stage for the entrance of the sopranos and children’s choir, who introduce the first verse of Oxenham’s text with quiet conviction.

A reference to Psalm 122 follows: ‘O pray for peace, peace in Jerusalem,’ serving as a poignant reminder that, even in 2025, conflict and unrest still persist in our world.

A darker mood then takes hold in the setting of the words of the second verse of Peace in Our Time. Tension builds in the harmonies and orchestration, underscoring the poem’s acknowledgment of conflict and fear. The music becomes restless, shadowed - a moment of deep reflection on the cost of war and the urgency of the plea: “Peace in our time, O Lord.” For too long, human hearts have been dominated - held in thrall - by fear and suspicion. These emotions have controlled and oppressed us, preventing unity, compassion, and peace. There is an invocation to the divine - calling upon the Breath of Heaven (a metaphor for God's spirit or presence) to move powerfully through the world. The prayer is for this spirit to awaken humanity with a higher, more virtuous purpose - a nobler call than war, division, or hatred.

From this turbulence rises a bold fanfare: organ and trumpets lead a ceremonial yet hopeful call. This marks a turning point, ushering in the final verse - a glorious setting of the last verse from Oxenham’s poem.
As the final bars drift into silence, the music returns to stillness. What remains is not resolution, but a tender longing - a heartfelt echo of the words: “Peace in our time, Peace in our world.” The piece closes not with triumph, but with the serene persistence of hope, and an acknowledgement, even 85 years after the Coventry Blitz, that we find ourselves still yearning for peace.

The work was performed at Coventry, Wells & Worcester Cathedrals during November 2025.