How Firm A Foundation

Grade Level 4

Year: 2025

Composer: Bruce Broughton 

Program Notes:

The origin of How Firm a Foundation is unclear. It first appeared in 1787 in a published collection of hymns by John Rippon, an English Baptist minister. The words were possibly written by Robert Keene, the precentor, or facilitator of worship, at Rippon’s church, and draw heavily from Bible verses. At the time of Rippon’s collection, there were two tunes recommended for the hymn: “Geard,” by Robert Keene, and (curiously enough) “Broughton.” The tune “Foundation,” which is most commonly associated with the words, first appeared in a collection of Genuine Church Music in 1832. Its origins also are uncertain, although it is likely an early American folk tune. 

American Instrumental Ensemble Series (AIES/ABES)