Product Description
This arrangement adapts Sir John Gosss choral work Hark! Heard Ye Not? into a rich and expressive string quintet, preserving the lyrical beauty and devotional character of the original while enhancing its warmth through layered string textures. Scored for a balanced ensemble, this piece is ideal for intermediate-level performers and is well-suited for concert performances, sacred music programs, or educational settings.
Instrumentation:
Violin 1
Violin 2
Viola
Violoncello
Double Bass
Key Features:
Faithful Adaptation: Retains the homophonic, hymn-like structure of Gosss original, with carefully crafted string writing that emulates the choral SATB voicing.
Medium Difficulty: Accessible to advanced student ensembles, amateur chamber groups, and professional performers alike.
Expressive Dynamics: Includes phrasing and articulation markings to guide performers in capturing the pieces devotional character.
Versatile Use: Suitable for church concerts, recitals, or as a reflective interlude in secular programs.
About the Composer:
Sir John Goss (18001880) was a leading figure in 19th-century English sacred music, renowned for his contributions as a composer, organist, and educator. As organist of St. Pauls Cathedral and a professor at the Royal Academy of Music, Goss shaped Victorian church music, leaving a legacy that includes beloved hymns such as Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven. His works are celebrated for their melodic grace and accessibility, qualities that shine in Hark! Heard Ye Not?
About the Original Work:
A lesser-known but charming part-song or anthem, Hark! Heard Ye Not? exemplifies Gosss skill in crafting uplifting, text-driven music for choirs. Its lyrical lines and homophonic textures translate beautifully to strings, offering a fresh yet reverent interpretation of this Victorian gem.
Ideal For:
Chamber music concerts
Church or sacred music events
Educational ensemble rehearsals
Historical music programs
This arrangement invites string players to explore the elegance of Gosss compositional style while delivering a poignant and harmonically satisfying performance piece.
This product was created by a member of ArrangeMe, Hal Leonard's global self-publishing community of independent composers, arrangers, and songwriters. ArrangeMe allows for the publication of unique arrangements of both popular titles and original compositions from a wide variety of voices and backgrounds.