Madonna of the Rocks is a setting of Yorkshire poet Ian Emberson's poem of the same name. It comes from his collection entitled Swallows Return. The influence is a painting by Leonardo Da Vinci in the National Gallery, London. The setting is for unaccompanied SATB choir. The opening question: "Is this really the Galilean girl who bore Jesus?" leads to a search for meaning through further questioning. The end is a triumphant hymn to nature and the "whirlpool of the world". It is approx. 2 mins. 45 in duration. Although suitable as a carol, it is appropriate for any time of the year. A setting for accompanied SA choir is also available.