Isaac Watts' Hymns

SKU: ST.B934

ISBN 9780852499344.

This, the ninth of a series of books begun in 1983, contains Brian Wren's 36 most recent hymns (2009 to 2012). It is nicely presented and laid out in a user-friendly way. The hymns are divided into five thematic sections: Jesus from Cradle to Cross; Easter Hymns; Church and Mission; Praise; and Metrical Psalms. This last section, rooted in (though not bound by) the Old Testament, is often influenced by Isaac Watts and will be of more use to some than others; it concludes with a tremendous rendering of Psalm 8; a paean of praise which all will love, set to a stirring tune.

Each section is prefaced with a single page introduction listing the contents and, in some instances, giving an interesting insight into Brian Wren's theology and thinking which provides food for contemplation. Each hymn is printed in words format with all the necessary information for inclusion in an order of worship. Every hymn is also printed with full score music for accompaniment interlined with the words. The book is slightly larger than A5, and there are various useful indexes.

The tunes range from ancient to modern, some very familiar, including Candler (better known as Ye Banks and Braes). A number are of a metre where alternative tunes are available. Those tunes which are new vary in ease of use; some will be readily picked up, others would prove challenging for occasional use in a small congregation but could be used as music group items.

These are hymns which need to be read as a whole and require thought. The words are chosen with care and notable as much for those not used as those included e.g.: 'Christ, untameably alive,/ breathe your life upon us - / Compass, Governor and Guide, / with us and beyond us,/ Sky and Sunlight, / spreading Vine./ Spring of Living Water,/ Truth and Wisdom, Way and Word,/ here, and then hereafter.' These hymns will be useful in worship as either sung or read pieces, and will also prove an invaluable resource for private devotion.

Robert Canham, Reform

SKU: CF.FAS115F

ISBN 9781491154885. UPC: 680160913435. 9 x 12 inches. Key: E minor.

Rejoice, East and West pairs two of the most popular holiday pieces. O Come, O Come Emmanuel is one of the staples of music for the season of Advent. Its plaintive melody represents the subdued tone of Advent, waiting and anticipating during the four weeks before Christmas Day. The modal character has roots in Ancient Greece and is characteristic of the music from Middle Eastern countries. The melody of Joy to the World is attributed to George Frideric Handel. It first appeared in 1719 in a collection by Isaac Watts, who adapted the text. It is one of the most published Christmas hymns in North America and is one of the most iconic songs for celebrating the birth of Christ. The connection between these two contrasting pieces is rejoice. In Emmanuel the modal tones arrive at a major chord and the words exclaim Rejoice, rejoice! This is where a bridge is composed to arrive at a jubilant introduction of Joy to the World. This arrangement teaches students dynamic contrast, tempo changes, slurs and ties.
Rejoice, East and West pairs two of the most popular holiday pieces.  “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” is one of the staples of music for the season of Advent.  Its plaintive melody represents the subdued tone of Advent, waiting and anticipating during the four weeks before Christmas Day.  The modal character has roots in Ancient Greece and is characteristic of the music from Middle Eastern countries. The melody of “Joy to the World” is attributed to George Frideric Handel.  It first appeared in 1719 in a collection by Isaac Watts, who adapted the text.  It is one of the most published Christmas hymns in North America and is one of the most iconic songs for celebrating the birth of Christ. The connection between these two contrasting pieces is “rejoice.” In “Emmanuel” the modal tones arrive at a major chord and the words exclaim “Rejoice, rejoice!” This is where a bridge is composed to arrive at a jubilant introduction of “Joy to the World.” This arrangement teaches students dynamic contrast, tempo changes, slurs and ties.