Hymns for String Ensembles

Dearest Jesus, We Are Here
Tune: Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier
Arranged by John E. Frantz

This arrangement from the Hymns for String Ensembles series is worth purchasing just for the exceptional chorale Prelude. A little over three minutes in length, it would also make a fine voluntary or concert or recital piece. It offers much rhythmic and melodic activity for all. The cantus firmus moves from the soprano and alto lines at first to the tenor and bass lines later. The arrangement continues with the Hymnal Version from Lutheran Worship and three new Congregational Versions. Setting B makes effective use of layered entries In setting C, the I Violin provides an ethereal effect by moving slowly in melodic fourths and fifths above everyone else.

This arrangement can be played by as few as four instruments (typically I & II Violins, Viola, and Cello). The Cello part can of course, be augmented with or replaced by Double Bass, reading from the same score. Parts are included for upper Viola and upper Cello, so that quartets can be formed in different ways, or various doublings may be made for larger ensembles. In addition, parts for I, II & III Clarinets and for F Horn are included, so that substitutions can be made for missing stringed instruments. The arrangement can accompany a congregation, or 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.