Hymns for Orchestral Ensembles

In Thee Is Gladness
Tune: In dir ist Freude
Arranged by Kenneth T. Kosche

The Prelude is long enough to stand alone, and short enough to provide an extended introduction to the hymn sung by a congregation. Descending eighth-note segments of the F Major scale form a motif that ties the Prelude together with an energetic rhythm, while the soprano and tenor lines trade off on the chorale tune. A new, hymnal type of setting is next, followed by three more active harmonizations. One of these is slower, featuring steady eighth-note rhythms in a legato style around the chorale melody that is exchanged by the upper three voices. The tenor line carries the melody all through the final setting until the final "Alleluia," which moves to the alto voice. Rhythmic interest is provided by the dotted rhythms borrowed from the melody by the alto and bass lines.

The arrangement can be played by as few as four instruments (soprano, alto, tenor, bass), and by as many as a full wind ensemble (concert band) or orchestra. Orchestration suggestions are given for a large group. The arrangement can accompany a congregation, or 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 woodwind, brass, and string instruments, background notes, and suggestions for performance with or without the congregation and choir.