Melissa Dunphy

Commissioned by the National Lutheran Choir.

An energetic setting of text from Proverbs 14, featuring tenor-bass octet.

The premiere performance of There Is a Way took place on May 4th, 2025, at Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, by the National Lutheran Choir, Cantus, the Concert Choir of St. Michael-Albertville High School, and Westminster Presbyterian Church Choir, under the direction of Artistic Director Dr. Jennaya Robison.

Text

There Is a Way
Adapted from Proverbs 14

There is a way to wisdom and understanding.

There is a way which seems right,
but in the end it leads to death.
The simple believe everything,
but the prudent carefully consider their ways.
The fool is hot headed and reckless,
but the wise fear and shun evil.

Don't they go astray who plot evil?
But those who plan good find love and faithfulness.
A heart at peace gives life of the body,
but envy rots the bones.

Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker,
but those who are kind to the needy honor Him.
The wicked are brought down in their calamity.
Wisdom rests in the minds of those who have understanding.
Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin is a disgrace to any people.

Artwork by Melissa Dunphy.

Performances

• 04 May, 2025: National Lutheran Choir, Cantus, the Concert Choir of St. Michael-Albertville High School, and Westminster Presbyterian Church Choir at Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, MN