God Shed His Grace on Thee

From Wind Repertory Project
Samuel Augustus Ward

Samuel Augustus Ward (setting Andrew Glover)


General Info

Year: 1882 / 2002
Duration: c. 4:55
Difficulty: III-1/2 (see Ratings for explanation)
Original Medium: Hymn
Publisher: C.L. Barnhouse
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $60.00   |   Score Only (print) - $6.00


Instrumentation

Full Score
C Piccolo/Flute
Oboe
Bassoon
B-flat Soprano Clarinet I-II-III
B-flat Bass Clarinet
E-flat Alto Saxophone I-II
B-flat Tenor Saxophone
E-flat Baritone Saxophone
B-flat Trumpet I-II-III
Horn in F I-II-III-IV
Trombone I-II-III
Euphonium
Tuba
Timpani
Percussion, including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Bells
  • Chimes
  • Crash Cymbals
  • Field Drum
  • Snare Drum
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Tam-Tam
  • Xylophone

Antiphonal Trumpets (3)
Antiphonal Trombones (3)


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

This impressive chorale-prelude setting by Andrew Glover is an exceptional choice for ceremonial events, formal observances, or as a concert selection. A robust opening fanfare segues seamlessly into a peaceful original chorale. A short interlude leads into a robust and powerful chorus of America, the Beautiful which includes optional parts for antiphonal trumpets and trombones. Sensitive and reflective scoring combine with warm and gentle dissonances for a truly remarkable conclusion. Stunning, emotional and inspiring selection for any program.

- Program Note from publisher


This music is intended as both a patriotic statement as well as an emotional and provocative one. I have endeavored to bookend the obligatory powerful ‘tutti’ presentation of this great patriotic anthem with a certain element of contrasting original music to convey elements in addition to those we normally associate with this song.

While the verse, presented with powerful brass and boisterous percussion, is emblematic of our democracy and the freedoms that all Americans hold dear, this work concludes in a less conventional manner. The soft and gently unsettling dissonant ending suggests a disquieting need for a greater humanity and compassion; it is my hope that this music will create a positive aura of introspection. As we move ahead, may we reflect on the words of Catherine Lee Bates, who wrote, as part of the lyrics to America the Beautiful, the "thine alabaster cities gleam undimmed by human tears."

- Program Note by arranger


For Colleen Supinski (August 24, 1974 – September 11, 2001)

Premiere performance by the Lee's Summit North High School Band, Rona Adams-Bussard, conductor, at the Missouri Music Educators Conference, January 24, 2002.

- Program Note from score


Commercial Discography


Media


State Ratings

None discovered thus far.


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project


Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


All Wind Works


Resources