Shall We Gather at the River (SAB) 3-Part - Digital Sheet Music

SKU: A0.923199

A new and different rendition of a very old and beloved christian hymn. After an instrumental introduction, based on the refrain from the original hymn by Robert Lowry (1864), the newly composed verses begin with a musical theme meant to represent flowing water in a rippling river or stream. The original lyrics are adapted for all five verses and the refrain. The first verse is followed by the refrain, adapted from the original hymn. After that the refrain follows verses 3 and 5. The song ends on the final refrain, as the tempo slows and the flowing water theme ends. The vocals start out unison, but quickly divide out to SAB parts, all in a comfortable range. The melody in the verses shifts from soprano to alto, just before it gets too low for some sopranos. However altos or baritones could probably sing the melody, as the highest notes are likely still contained within their upper range. Thus the piece could be performed as a solo for altos or baritones. Though the melody shifts, a bit, from soprano to alto, it is easily heard in continuity. Thus, intuitively, the audience, or congregation, will clearly hear the melody, and be easily able to sing along. The score provided here, contains the SAB parts and piano (with chord symbols). As you listen to the example provided, you will hear a string trio playing in the accompaniment, along with the piano. The violin, viola and violoncello adds a nice dimension to the accompaniment sound. An accompaniment track is also available under item no. S0.870603.

Denny Glasscock (Lyrics and Refrain adapted from Original Hymn by Robert Lowry, 1864).