Hymns for String Ensembles

O People, Rise and Labor
Tune: Aus Meines Herzens Grunde
Arranged by John E. Frantz

From the Hymns for String Ensembles series. The chorale Prelude begins with a charming alto pizzicato ostinato accompanying the tenor cantus firmus over pedal tones in the bass. Later, a legato descant appears in the soprano. In the last of the three congregational versions (after the hymnal version from Lutheran Worship), the alto ostinato returns, played with the bow this time. Another congregational version provides more harmonic interest. This arrangement is easy enough for a good junior high quartet to play.

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 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 2/3.

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.