Description
This hymn arrangement is based on the Isaac Watts text with the AVON tune. Don has crafted an instantly accessible piece which choirs and accompanists will enjoy for years. The a cappella section (mm. 54-68) is especially warm, centered on the text: "?dissolve my heart in thankfulness and melt mine eyes to tears." One’s accompanist will delight in the last section as the piano part resounds during the final stanza. The arrangement then winds down to a quiet statement of discipleship--our response to the price that Christ paid with his sacrifice of love.

Editor's Notes
This arrangement features several sections of unison singing--one needs to be careful here so that the sound is not too big because of the choral treatment during these sections. Choirs will have to ‘pull back the reigns’ so that the piece climaxes on the last stanza. The two-part women’s and men’s stanzas are especially nice. There is a phrase in the original tune that will require a little attention as well, the last phrase of each stanza: make sure that the choristers place the line high, or else the tone and pitch will sag (see "?for sinners such as I." / "?and love beyond degree." etc.)

For variety, one might use a soloist on the opening stanza instead of all the men’s voices, or try an ensemble(s) on stanzas 2/3 instead of the full women’s/men’s sections. Also, spend time in working the a cappella section so that the choir can do this--it will make the piece shine.

User License
The purchaser of this file has permission to print one copy of the file for each license purchased. The electronic file may not be sold, copied, or transferred to another person or church. The purchaser may make a backup copy of the file.

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