Hymns for Woodwind Ensembles

Son of God, Eternal Savior/Holy Spirit, Ever Dwelling
Tune: In Babilone
Arranged by Dale Elmshaeuser

This arrangement for woodwind quartet from the Hymns for Woodwind Ensembles series begins with the Hymnal Version from Lutheran Book of Worship and Lutheran Worship, followed by three Congregational Versions. In the first of these, the soprano line carries the hymn tune "Dix" (with rhythmic augmentation during the last half of the tune), while the tenor line plays "In Babilone." This treatment correlates nicely with Stanza 2 of "Son of God, Eternal Savior," since "Dix" often accompanies the hymn, "For the Beauty of the Earth;" and the two hymn texts have a logical relationship. Treble and bass duets alternate in the third setting. The final harmonization has the melody in the alto line.

This arrangement can be played by as few as four instruments. Parts are included for Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, I-III Clarinets, Bass Clarinet, I & II Alto Saxes, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, and F Horn, so that quartets can formed in different ways, or various doublings may be made for larger ensembles. The arrangement can accompany a congregation, or it can be played as an instrumental suite of variations on the hymn. The difficulty level is 3.

Full set includes a Conductor/Keyboard Score, transposed parts for individual instruments, background notes, and suggestions for performance with or without the congregation and choir.