From the Publisher: Chris Teichler gives one of John Newton's most beautiful hymn texts an atmospheric, tender musical setting. Usable throughout the year, this lovely anthem brings out the heart of the words: "How sweet the name of Jesus sounds in a believer's ear! It soothes our sorrows, heals our wounds, and drives away our fear." Memorable, thoughtful, and a great ministry tool.
SATB and Piano. New music set to Horatius Bonar's text. Unison writing opens up to two-part and eventually a four-part acapella section, before reaching a calm conclusion. A general use anthem.
Text by Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792 - 1822). Commissioned by the MidCities Chamber Singers (Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas).
Reading the text suggested so many musical ideas, especially in terms of harmony and texture. The duple vs. triple piano accompaniment helps set a nebulous rhythmic feel without taking away a clear sense of pulse, suggesting the idea of being swept up in the feelings of love. The harmonies are rich and lush, which follows the rich imagery of the poetry. From the beginning of the piece, there is a continual move towards harmonic resolution, which never really arrives until the final measures of the piece, and then, only briefly.
