The anthems in this book have been chosen from the best religious music of many churches, countries, and centuries. Since the amount of good church music composed for women's voices is practically negligible, the book contains for the most part traditional airs and carols newly harmonized, arrangements of music composed originally for mixed voices, and a few judiciously selected songs originally composed for solo voice, to which choral parts have been added. There are included a number of anthems intended to be sung without accompaniment and simple enough for a young choir's first venture into a cappella singing. Accompaniments are provided, but are marked FOR REHEARSAL ONLY, and directors are urged to let their choirs experience the delight and growth that comes from this kind of singing, and never to doubt their ability to undertake it.