Hymns for Orchestral Ensembles

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
Tune: Lobe den Herren
Arranged by Kenneth T. Kosche

In this arrangement from the Hymns for Orchestral Ensembles series, copies of the first notes of the chorale tune are juxtaposed with altered fragments of other portions of the tune to create a joyful Prelude. A hymnal type of harmonization precedes three more new settings, one having the chorale in the tenor line with a descant in the soprano line. The final setting is based on a slightly different version of the chorale that is compatible with the version used previously.

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), string orchestra, or full 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.