Chopin-nocturne style of another evening-themed hymn.
Of the 6 in Great Hymns of the Faith, this one was
probably the hardest. The reason is, Chopin nocturnes
usually have relatively short melodies, strung out over
a lot of accompaniment to make them take longer. This
hymn, however, had a pretty long tune. So, I took some
liberties with the form. The verse comprises the A
section, repeated. Then, in the stormier middle
section, we have a sort of polonaise. Finally, we
return to the quiet ...(+)
Chopin-nocturne style of another evening-themed hymn.
Of the 6 in Great Hymns of the Faith, this one was
probably the hardest. The reason is, Chopin nocturnes
usually have relatively short melodies, strung out over
a lot of accompaniment to make them take longer. This
hymn, however, had a pretty long tune. So, I took some
liberties with the form. The verse comprises the A
section, repeated. Then, in the stormier middle
section, we have a sort of polonaise. Finally, we
return to the quiet contemplative mood--only, this
time, it is the chorus, not the A theme like a true
Chopin nocturne would have done. Not a perfect
imitation, but this melody is not the one you would
have chosen for a perfect imitation. I hope you enjoy
this arrangement!
1. Day is dying in the west,
Heav’n is touching earth with rest;
Wait and worship while the night
Sets her evening lamps alight
Thru all the sky.
2. Lord of life, beneath the dome
Of the universe, Thy home,
Gather us who seek Thy face
To the fold of Thy embrace,
For Thou art nigh.
3. While the deep’ning shadows fall,
Heart of Love, enfolding all,
Thru the glory and the grace
Of the stars that veil Thy face,
Our hearts ascend.
4. When forever from our sight
Pass the stars, the day, the night,
Lord of angels, on our eyes
Let eternal morning rise,
And shadows end.
Chorus: Holy, holy, holy,
Lord God of Hosts!
Heav’n and earth are full of Thee!
Heav’n and earth are praising Thee,
O Lord most high!
SHEET MUSIC