Hymns for Woodwind Ensembles

What a Friend We Have in Jesus
Tune: Converse
Arranged by Mark Albrecht

This arrangement from the Hymns for Woodwind Ensembles series begins with a sparkling, Baroque-style Prelude that ends whimsically in the Flute. It is a worthwhile, independent composition, but is also an effective prelude to the hymn. After the Hymnal Version from Lutheran Book of Worship and Lutheran Worship, there are two new settings that both contain a lot of rhythmic and harmonic interest, gradually taking on hints of the blues.

This arrangement can be played by as few as four instruments. The original instrumentation was Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon, but parts are included for II & III Clarinets, Bass Clarinet, I & II Alto Saxes, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, and F Horn, so that quartets can be formed in different ways, or various doublings may be made for larger ensembles. The arrangement can accompany a congregation, or can be played as an instrumental suite of variations on the hymn. The difficulty level is 3/4.

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.