This choral prayer is an original setting of William Cowper’s hymn, first published in the Olney Hymns collection. Working through a complex emotional and spiritual journey, the text ultimately points toward healing in God’s providence. The hymn was superscribed with Isaiah 57:15, “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite’.”
Do Not I Love Thee, O My Lord? published by Augsburg Fortress
Augsburg Fortress has published my anthem, “Do Not I Love Thee, O My Lord?” (SATB, a cappella). This is a sensitive, expressive anthem based on the sturdy early American tune DETROIT, perfectly capturing the deeply personal text that seeks to grow in the love for God. The piece also received an Editors’ Choice designation from JW Pepper.
Publishing (Augsburg Fortress) update 2.11.20
Augsburg Fortress will publish my original choral setting of “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” (Unison or 2-part, keyboard, violin) as part of their Spring 2021 release. “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” is an anonymous text full of vivid imagery. This original choral setting achieves timbral variety using minimal forces. The anthem is appropriate during Advent and Lent, as well as throughout the year.
Publishing (MorningStar) update 12.7.18
MorningStar Music
will publish my newest Communion anthem, “Lord Jesus Christ, Life-Giving Bread,” on a poignant text by seventeenth-century pastor Johann Rist. Elegant vocal lines that remain within narrow ranges combine with a simple, supportive accompaniment to make this an excellent choice for choirs of any size. This is scheduled to be published as part of MorningStar’s Spring 2020 release.
Going over Jordan (Olivia Cresswell) added to the Shaw Music catalog
Olivia Cresswell’s beautiful collection, Going over Jordan: Songs of Heaven for Piano, contains six hymns and spirituals arranged at a moderate level. From introspective passages to joyful bursts of praise, there is something for everyone here. Preview a sample from the score here.
Publishing (Augsburg Fortress) update 6.27.18
Augsburg Fortress will publish my SATB a cappella setting of the Sacred Harp hymn “Do Not I Love Thee?” as part of their Fall 2020 release. This setting of Philip Doddridge’s hymn, paired with the Sacred Harp tune “Detroit,” is haunting and particularly effective during Lent.
Hymn Prelude Library vol 11 published by Concordia
Concordia Publishing House has released volume 11 of the 12-volume series Hymn Prelude Library (based on Lutheran Service Book), containing hymn tunes that begin with ‘T’, ‘U’, and ‘V’. This volume includes my setting of the tune “Union City” (“If Christ Had Not Been Raised from Death“), by Phillip Magness (Cantor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Broken Arrow, OK and composer with Liturgy Solutions). Other contributors to this volume (edited by Kevin Hildebrand) include Charles Callahan, Benjamin M. Culli, and Kristina Langlois. You may pre-order the book now, and it should become available on June 30, 2017.
How to Re-harmonize Hymns
Have you ever wanted to learn how to re-harmonize hymns, to accompany congregational singing? My latest blog post on Prelude Music Planner provides a 5-step process on how to do this. Check it out here, and be sure to download the free re-harmonization of the hymn “Gethsemane” (link at bottom of post).
Two- and Three-Part Choir Music
Choosing repertoire for church choirs is one of the most difficult, time-consuming tasks of all choir directors, whether they direct larger or smaller choirs. There are some unique challenges facing those who direct smaller choirs, though. To support you in your work, I have written a blog post on the topic (with 25 anthem suggestions) on Prelude Music Planner. Check it out here.
Jesus, Refuge of the Weary published by Beckenhorst
Beckenhorst has published my latest SATB anthem, “Jesus, Refuge of the Weary,” which also received an Editors’ Choice Award from JW Pepper. You can view sample pages here and listen to an excellent demo recording here. Here is how Pepper describes the piece:
This beautiful music for SATB voices and piano is set to the text of Girolamo Savonarola. Suitable for Lent or general use, “Jesus, Refuge of the Weary” is a heartfelt plea to our Saviour that we become evermore mindful of His sacrifice for us on the cross. “Jesus, may our hearts be burning with more fervent love for you; may our eyes be ever turning to behold your cross anew.” A stunning work.
