Fanfare and Concertato on "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty": Choral Instrumental Pak
As performed by Catherine Winkworth / Arranged by Brad Nix
Item: 35-PK00322385
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Description
Uses: General, Call to Worship
Scripture: Psalm 103:1-6; Psalm 150
This glorious arrangement for choir and congregation is part of our "Fanfare and Concertato" series, dedicated to invigorating congregational worship. Designed to be a festive moment, the accoutrements of handbells, brass and percussion are incredible additions, yet this setting is interesting enough to be a "choir only" standalone anthem. This time-honored hymn will find its home in any worship gathering.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00322385
More about this title
About the Artist: Catherine Winkworth
Catherine Winkworth (1827–1878) was a prolific English hymn translator whose work shaped Protestant worship across the English-speaking world. Her translations of German chorale texts, executed with both theological precision and poetic grace, introduced congregations to the rich devotional traditions of the Reformation. Her versions of "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" and countless others remain standard in hymnals today, testimony to her ear for language and her commitment to making profound spiritual poetry singable.
Why we love this
Brad Nix's setting honors the hymn's stately dignity while unleashing its celebratory potential. The arrangement scales beautifully from choir alone (perfect for smaller worship spaces or budget constraints) all the way to the full instrumentation of handbells, brass, and percussion, giving directors genuine flexibility without sacrificing musical substance in either configuration.
What to expect
A proclamation of joy unfolds with stately grandeur. The familiar melody rises with newfound brilliance, underscored by rich harmonies and punctuated by bright instrumental accents that feel both ceremonial and genuinely warm. There's polish here, but no coldness; the arrangement invites congregational participation rather than relegating them to observers.
Who it's for
Worship directors and choir leaders seeking a confident opening anthem that engages both musicians and congregation. This works equally well in churches with robust instrumental programs and those relying on voices and keyboard alone.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the organ or keyboard foundation with care; the hymn's harmonic richness should support rather than overwhelm the congregational melody.
- If using handbells and brass, rehearse the instrumental entrances separately from the choir to lock the rhythmic flourishes that define the fanfare sections.
- Let the congregation carry the main hymn tune without doubling from sopranos, allowing their voices to anchor the piece while the choir provides inner harmony and textural lift.
- Build dynamic shape across the full arc rather than treating each phrase identically; this piece rewards subtle crescendos toward key harmonic moments.
How to use it
Open a worship service with this as a call to worship, allowing the fanfare elements to command attention and set a festive tone for the gathering. The scriptural grounding in Psalms 103 and 150 makes it a natural fit for services centered on praise and thanksgiving. Consider programming it during seasons of celebration (Thanksgiving, Easter, or festival Sundays) when the full instrumental palette enhances the sense of occasion.
Skills your students will build
- Balancing choir voice parts within a richer harmonic texture
- Singing hymn tunes with stylistic confidence and clear articulation
- Coordinating with instrumental accompaniment and understanding ensemble interdependence
- Shaping congregational song through modeling and precise choral support
- Navigating moderate ranges comfortably while maintaining tonal warmth