Arrangements for Orchestral Ensembles

Two Hymn Accompaniments, Set III
Blessed Assurance (Tune: Assurance); and
Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven (Tune: Praise, My Soul)
Arranged by Dale Elmshaeuser

The two shorter arrangements within this arrangement from the Arrangements for Orchestral Ensembles series were written for a wind ensemble to accompany congregational singing, but they can be played by strings, and they are varied enough to serve as separate instrumental pieces. "Blessed Assurance" has an original Introduction, followed by the harmonization from the hymnal supplement With One Voice, and an optional descant. "Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven" begins with an instrumental Introduction, and continues with the harmonization from Lutheran Book of Worship. The arrangement proceeds with a Congregational Version in four-part harmony, with an optional fifth part. The LBW harmonization returns, with an added descant. The latter can be played by the instrumentalists, and/or sung by choir trebles from the provided sheet that includes the text of the final hymn stanza for both "Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven," and "Alleluia, Song of Gladness." While this set is playable by many high school ensembles, it is musically interesting enough for adult and advanced groups as well.

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 (without percussion). The arrangement can accompany a congregation, or can be played as an instrumental piece. The difficulty level is 3.

Full set includes a Conductor/Keyboard Score, transposed parts for individual woodwind, brass, and string instruments, and suggestions for performance.