The Song

All right everyone -- here it is. The song we are going to be working on for the remaining 4 weeks of classes. (By the way -- class is canceled today, March 30). You can download the file below, print it, and begin working on "fleshing it out." Here are some things we will need/want for this song:

1. Harmonization (chords)
2. Structure (form -- verses, choruses, intros, bridges, interludes, etc.)
3. Instrumentation

The list could go on. For example, we could have a drum loop going on. We could have an ostinato in the treble or bass. We could have an a capella section. We could have a bridge featuring a string quartet. The song could be for a soloist, or an ensemble, or a choir, or a combination of any of those. We could use the idea of a canon to have counter-melodies (descant) going on. The options are endless.

So put some thought into it and bring all your ideas to the next class. This is our song -- don't let it be written without your thoughts put forth. Thanks and God bless!

Josh

Here is the song

Class 4a

Sorry for not posting last class. For now, this class post is for the composition assignment. Here are the lyrics to the "hymn":

1 Jesus, lover of my soul,
let me to thy bosom fly,
while the nearer waters roll,
while the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide,
till the storm of life is past;
safe into the haven guide;
O receive my soul at last.

2 Other refuge have I none,
hangs my helpless soul on thee;
leave, ah! leave me not alone,
still support and comfort me.
All my trust on thee is stayed,
all my help from thee I bring;
cover my defenseless head
with the shadow of thy wing.

3 Wilt Thou not regard my call?
Wilt Thou not accept my prayer?
Lo! I sink, I faint, I fall-
Lo! on Thee I cast my care;
Reach me out Thy gracious hand!
While I of Thy strength receive,
Hoping against hope I stand,
dying, and behold, I live.

4 Thou, O Christ, art all I want,
more than all in thee I find;
raise the fallen, cheer the faint,
heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is thy name,
I am all unrighteousness;
false and full of sin I am;
thou art full of truth and grace.

5 Plenteous grace with thee is found,
grace to cover all my sin;
let the healing streams abound,
make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art,
freely let me take of thee;
spring thou up within my heart;
rise to all eternity.


There you are. So here the rules again:

• The song must have a melody. It would be nice to have a harmony (parts, chords, Roman numeral, et al.).
• You can use part or all of the lyrics. You may change, take away, or add to them. I'm more interested in a concept than a total dedication to every word.
• I would like to see the melody written out. If you have any other parts (instrumental, bridge, etc.) it would also be nice to see them written out.
• You do not have to have everything written out in publishable form. Just a sketch will do.

If you have any other questions, feel free to email. We will continue to look at the Bach Prelude soon and compare it to an old pop song. Thanks for your dedication. God bless-

Josh

P.S. Here is a link to the homework.