Product Description
In 1643, Johann Crüger, cantor and organist at Berlins Nicolaikirche, met Paul Gerhardt (16071676), minister, theologian and hymnodist. Impressed by Gerhardts work, Crüger composed musical settings for a number of Gerhardts songs. The two men became friends and jointly produced beautiful and meaningful religious music for years. One product of their collaboration was this hymn, "Awake, My Heart, with Gladness," first published in 1648. It has since become an Easter classic, and Crügers upbeat melody is perfect to celebrate Christianitys Risen Savior.
Included in this arrangement are parts for two types of brass quintet: (1) 2 trumpets, horn in F, trombone and tuba and (2) 2 trumpets, two trombones and tuba. The tenor voice (horn or trombone 1) and trumpet 1 begin the piece, swapping melody and counterpoint between them. The second time through the tune, upper and lower brass take turns with the melody. The third iteration takes on a rondo-like form, and in the fourth, trumpet 1 and the tenor voice alternate with eighth note figures. Finally, trumpet 1 and the tenor voice first restate their opening, then are gradually joined by the other instruments in building to a joyous and triumphant close.
Brass quintets with horn in F should use the parts labeled Trumpet 1, Trumpet 2, Horn in F, Trombone and Tuba. Those with two trombones should use the parts labeled Trumpet 1, Trumpet 2, Trombone 1, Trombone 2 and Tuba.
Completed in 2012, this arrangement runs about 4 minutes, 10 seconds. The arranger, Les Smith, will be happy to provide substitute parts (e.g., Treble Clef Baritone for Trombone) at no charge; contact him directly at lessmith61@bellsouth.net. For more arrangements by Les, enter "Sweetwater Brass Press" (without the quotation marks) in the search box. (Also, purchase of this piece entitles you to your choice of another of his arrangements at no charge; send a copy of your purchase receipt directly to him at lessmith61@bellsouth.net.)
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.