What Wondrous Love Is This

I first tackled this arrangement in 1996, so it’s fast approaching 40 years old. This is a timeless hymn, and I wanted to write a timeless arrangement that honored its classic folk tune and showcased the depth of its lyrics. I think I came close to my goal back then. When it came time to re-examine this anthem, I thought seriously about leaving it as is.

But…maybe my age has caught up with me – because as I lived with it a while, I began to think, “That’s really pretty high up there” on certain passages. And this range issue affected not only some singers but some orchestral instruments as well.

So… I lowered the keys. One step. That’s all. But that one step makes a big difference in the real world of church choirs. That led to some re-voicing in choir parts – all of which was to make the singing easier.

After that, the piano accompaniment got a serious going-over, as did the orchestration. The result? Well, if I haven’t yet totally achieved my goal, I’m closer now than before. Perhaps this version will last another 40 years.

This anthem is appropriate for any traditional choir of 30+ on just about any Sunday in just about any church just about anywhere. You can’t help but love the melody and you can’t help but be moved by the lyrics. My hope is the arrangement helps to make it all come alive to the listener.