Hymns for String Ensembles

This Is My Father's World
Tune: Terra Patris
Arranged by John E. Frantz

In this arrangement for string quartet from the Hymns for String Ensembles series, the hymn tune is cleverly hidden in the three-minute Prelude. Because of this, the Prelude can be played as a free composition for many occasions. The Hymnal Version from Lutheran Book of Worship is followed by a two-part setting with the Viola melody over a steadily moving bass line in the Cello. The first Congregational Version is a duet between the Viola (tenor line) and the Cello (bass line). This duet is repeated in the second Congregational Version, while the Violins add rhythmic patterns above. In the final, very full, four-part Congregational Version, the Cello continues with nearly the same bass line.

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 Dounble 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 and 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 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.