Sing to the Lord, Mixed Voice Series, Volume 31 Part 3

Includes:

1. I have a Home (Ada Mary Nisbett adpt. A.W./Alan Williams)
   The first song in this edition speaks of a promised assurance that we, as Christians, are given. We have an eternal Home where we will experience everlasting joys, rewards, and treasures with our Saviour. The music needs to be relaxed with happy, smiling faces as it conveys the message of Heaven's blessings. It is important for the accompaniment to deliver a good, solid rhythm that does not push the music along but keeps the tempo steady. The lyricist, Ada Mary Nisbett, was a Salvation Army officer in Canada and these verses were originally published in 1886. Alan Williams, a member of Music Editorial, has once again provided music in the 'Gospel' genre, which will become popular with many groups.
    
2. Each precious moment (Adrian Griffiths/John Ellwood)
   This simple song has a powerful, yet beautiful message of thankfulness, respect, and remembrance for all those that have given their lives in actions of love, courage and faith. Their example should influence us as we live out our day-to-day existence aligned with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This song was written and dedicated to the memory of Bandsman Albert Emmett St Clair Tracy who gave his life on the 24th of May 1941, whilst serving in the Second World War on HMS Hood. The bandsman attended Portsmouth Citadel Corps and was one of many that sacrificed their lives for the lives of others. The melodic line will require careful handling with correct vowel shapes and gentle consonants throughout. Ensure good breath support, particularly towards the ends of phrases so that the energy of the melody is not lost.
    
3. The Lamb  (attr. Hodgson Casson adpt. S.P./Stephen Pelley)
   This evocative setting of Hodgson Casson's attributed verses, originally written over 300 years ago, is by Stephen Pelley of Montreal, Canada. The composer has provided music that has great depth and appeal. The verses have a compelling narrative and thus should be treated with great care. Place and shape the consonants so that there is energy on words such as 'sins', 'curse' and 'shame' but also allow for the vowels to be heard on words such as 'glory', 'saved' and 'Lamb'. It is hoped that the song under review will prove to be a popular and powerful addition to many groups' repertoire.
    
4. Who gives us all (Christopher Wordsworth adpt. H.B./Harold Burgmayer)
   The provision that God gifts us daily ranges from the complex to the simple; from the mysteries of the universe to the gift of food, shelter and friendship. God gives and gives again so that we may live and be thankful to him. This song seeks to convey this message. In verse two, please remember that the accompanying 'Oo' in the soprano and alto vocal lines are only an accompaniment and not the main narrative. The composer has helped us with a unison tenor and bass line and a higher dynamic, but it us up to the leader to ensure the right balance here. We are grateful to Harold Burgmayer from the USA Eastern Territory for this lovely and compelling setting.
    
5. Messengers of the Kingdom (G.M./Gillian McCredie)
   It is always a joy to welcome new contributors to our journals. Lieutenant Gillian McCredie is currently the corps officer at Grays, Essex. She wrote this song in 2020 for her session, the 'Messengers of the Kingdom'. The song has a powerful message which is conveyed in an accessible and attractive way that will ensure that many groups can feature this within their ministry.
    
6. Just let God love you (Keith Banks/Andrew Wicker)
   Two established names within our journal have provided a beautiful song that was originally written for the Territorial Music School Girls' Chorus in 2022. The song's message is one that can be difficult to live out. We can often be consumed with matters that we cannot control without surrendering those fears and doubts into the hands of God. It is important to pray, to let God into our lives with all our issues, and to meditate on what he has to say through his word. This compelling song speaks of the peace and comfort that only God can give.
    
7. Looking for a king (George MacDonald/Gordon Camsey)
   Gordon Camsey, from Leighton Buzzard Corps, has provided a simple and poignant setting of verses originally published in 1883. This song should prove accessible to most groups to feature during the advent season and could be sung in unison if there is no provision for all the parts presented.