Wiseman's Masterful Touch: New Anthem Honors VE Day 80

How does Debbie Wiseman do it? All her compositions hit the mark and are lyrical with such appeal as demonstrated on this new poignant choral anthem, that really captures the words of Welsh poet Grahame Davies composed to mark the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day released as part of national commemorations honoring those who served in the Second World War. Voces8's beautifully balanced tone really makes an impact as they perform this haunting a cappella work.

A Day May Come, is released by Silva Screen Records.

The anthem, which speaks to themes of sacrifice, remembrance and hope, was recorded at the historic Voces8 Centre in the heart of the City of London, housed in the Wren-designed church of St Anne & St Agnes.
A Nation Remembers

On 8th May 2025, the country will come together to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of VE Day – Victory in Europe Day – when the Second World War came to an end in Europe. The occasion presents an opportunity for reflection on the events of eight decades ago and the stories of those who served and sacrificed.

The anthem's lyrics, penned by Davies, have been praised for their respectful evocation of the concepts of sacrifice and duty that were so prevalent during wartime:

A day may come that asks of us
all we have to give:
a day we never would have sought
and yet we have to live.
If it should be our destiny
to live in such a day,
let our faith and love be worthy of
the ones who showed the way.
The ones we now call heroes
The ones we say their memory will not die -
they were no different in their day
than you or I.
They were no different in their day.
than you or I.
The fears they faced, the faith they found
Their common cause and common ground,
we carry with us, come what may.
as we now face our destiny, our day.

Voices Behind the Music

Composer Debbie Wiseman explained the significance of the piece: "I composed 'A Day May Come', with heartfelt words by Grahame Davies to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on 8 May. This piece, beautifully and poignantly performed by VOCES8, is our tribute to the sacrifice and bravery of those who gave their lives so that those who followed could live their lives in peace and freedom. I hope that this anthem will offer a moment of quiet reflection to sit alongside the celebration of our victory in Europe."

Barnaby Smith, Artistic Director of VOCES8, added: "We are deeply honoured to have recorded Debbie Wiseman's A Day May Come. Her music is both powerful and poignant, capturing the spirit of remembrance and hope. It was a privilege for VOCES8 to bring this piece to life, and working with Debbie was a joy—her artistry and passion made the experience very special."

The sheet music for "i>A Day May Come will be published by Faber Music, allowing choirs across the country to perform the piece as part of their own commemorative events.

The release comes as part of the wider VE Day 80 national program of events remembering not only servicemen and servicewomen who fought, but also evacuated children, women on the home front, and all who sacrificed in the name of freedom and democracy.

A Day May Come (Anthem for VE Day 80)
Format: DL Catalogue No SILED1807