Jesus Lover Of My Soul (Martyn)

Grade Level 1

Year: 2004

Type: Bb/C Solo

Composer: James Curnow

Program Notes:

The distinguished preacher Henry Ward Beecher once said, “I would rather have written ‘Jesus, Lover of my Soul’ than to have the fame of all the kings that ever lived.” While no specific date is given as to when it was written, it was first published in 1740 during a time of great conflict in England and within the Church of England. The Wesley brothers, John and Charles, were often beaten, stoned and run out of town for their beliefs.

This brief solo, which reflects Charles Wesley’s incredible text (1707-1788), presents the beautiful melody of Simeon B. Marsh (1798-1875) in a relaxed, yet moving waltz-like setting that features the exchange of melodic ideas between the soloist and the ensemble.

American Instrumental Ensemble Series (AIES/ABES)