Saints Of God Rise Up

Grade Level 2

Year: 2014

Type: Hymn/Song Arrangement

Composer: Andrew Barrington

Program Notes:

The text to this beloved hymn, written by William Pierson Merrill (1867-1954), has been sung to various tunes throughout the years.  For this short, bright arrangement, the hymn tune, Festal Song, has been chosen.  This noble tune is probably the best-known tune from the pen of William Henry Walter (1825-1893), who, amongst other prestigious charges, served as the organist at Trinity Chapel at Columbia University beginning in 1865.  Just a year prior to taking that appointment, he received an honorary doctorate from the same institution.

Rise up, O saints of God!

Have done with lesser things.

Give heart and mind and soul and strength

To serve the King of kings.

American Instrumental Ensemble Series (AIES/ABES)