Ever New Joy is a simple chant with a short phrase repeated in two different registers. The challenge is establishing a natural pattern of repeats in the lower and higher sections, moving between them in a way that is easy to follow. The leader can linger on either section for emphasis. With such simple lyrics, increasing the tempo can help build energy, before slowing again to a moderate, steady tempo to end.

Song Form

A Joy, joy, joy, joy, ever new joy, joy! x2
Joy, joy, joy, joy, (transition to B)
B Joy, joy, joy, joy, ever new joy, joy! x2
Joy, joy, joy, joy, (transition to A)

Notes

• Each section is 2 bars sung x2, followed by a 1-bar transition phrase, so the length of the form is 10 bars in 4/4.

• The Cosmic Chants book leaves the number of repetitions flexible. After the standard form has been done several times, the leader can extend either section for emphasis.

Listen to SRF Recordings

Videos on YouTube

• 2023 Convocation Monks' Kirtan (3-hour)

• 2026 Convocation Nuns' Kirtan (90-minute)

Audio Recordings

• Ever New Joy (Sr. Premamayee), from the album Ever New Joy
  Spotify · Apple Music · Tidal

• Ever New Joy (Bro. Kamalananda), from the album The Ocean of Love
  Spotify · Apple Music · Tidal