In this arrangement of a more solemn hymn of praise, the congregation begins with the refrain on a more solemn moment, accompanied solely by chimes (or optional piano). Then the first stanza begins with colorful chords for the congregation to follow, and after omitting the first refrain, the instruments (and congregation) follows in the second and third stanzas (with the refrain). A brilliant key change is played by both piano and instruments, and the voices enter on the 4th stanza for “Glory, glory to the Father.” As a “bookend,” the final refrain ends a cappella to match the opening. This traditional hymn also has lowered ranges and alternate harmonies to satisfy the ear. This works well for a calmer service opener. Includes a full score, piano, and all individual instrumental parts: treble clef C, treble clef B-flat, horn, and bass clef, and chimes,
Real Responses from Congregations
Molly plays for the church my mother-in-law attends. The congregation becomes like a big choir with her arrangements. I’ve enjoyed the music when we’ve visited!
The beautiful accompaniment and the unison congregation could be used both congregationally and chorally (as we did)… For small to medium-sized choirs on low attendance Sundays these could be effective choral pieces or as a way to develop choir and orchestra when (as is our case) some choir members are also instrumentalists. We used three pieces as part of our Easter celebration. All were very well received. We were able to include our developing orchestra with all of it. So, thank you!
We love using these arrangements at Valley Community Baptist Church in our worship setting, regardless if we are using just piano and organ on a particular Sunday, or our full orchestra with choir and congregation. As the organist, the conductors score offers a great organ score option as an asset for churches using organ with these settings without revamping the piano score, making it quite easy… Thank you, Molly!
Molly’s congregational accompaniments add a freshness to treasured hymns of the past that enables a cross-generational congregation to join together in passionate worship of a great God.
