Re: Hymn tunes

> Dave Singer wrote:
>
> <snip>
>
> >What about the composer who writes music for a hymn that already has a
> >perfectly good tune?

<SNIP>

> FWIW: The text to the Christmas carol, Away in a Manger, has had not
> one but _two_ quite well-known tunes associated with it over the
> years. Nevertheless, in 1974 I wrote a new tune for the soprano
> soloist at my local church in Brooklyn. Chaulk it up to youthful . .
> . take your pick. :-)

<SNIP>

> >What about the composer who writes music for a hymn that already has a
> >perfectly good tune?
>

The answer probably centers around the word "perfectly".  While a composer
may feel that the traditional tune is outstanding, there can be a lot of
room between outstanding and perfect.

In the end, the composer's judgment will be affirmed if conductors and
performers choose to perform the music.

The choice of text can be one of the most difficult decisions in the
composition process. I have done a setting of "God Moves in a
Mysterious Way" at the suggestion of our church organist.  I was thinking
about doing a hymn anthem, using the traditional tune (Dundee). I felt,
however, that this tune was not a good match for this CM hymn. If anyone
would like to peruse a copy and give your opinion as to whether the new
setting was an upgrade or not I would be happy to email you a copy in
Sibelius format. (SATB + Keyboard) Please email me privately if you are
interested or have questions.

Rob Reck