Hymns of Peace: Violin Book

These arrangements radiate quiet dignity and sincerity. The melodies are never overshadowed by technical display; instead, McMichael gives students the room to sing through their instruments. Even at this level, the writing conveys the contemplative character of hymns while remaining musically satisfying and never condescending.

Intermediate string students (Grade 2.5 level) who benefit from repertoire with immediate musical and spiritual meaning. This collection works equally well for violin duet partners in a private studio setting, string class ensembles, or church musicians looking for accessible sacred music with enough substance to engage developing players.

• Balance the first and second violin lines so both parts remain audible; these melodies deserve equal weight, and younger players often need reminding to listen across the stand rather than only to their own part.
• Use the hymn texts as a touchstone during rehearsal. Having students know the words—even if they're not singing—helps shape phrasing and informs where to breathe and shape longer lines.
• When adding viola and cello, start with rehearsals where those parts play alone so violins can hear the harmonic foundation and adjust their intonation accordingly.
• Take time with the unison passages and rhythmic unisons between parts; these moments anchor the ensemble and require careful listening from all players.

This collection suits spring concerts with a sacred or memorial theme, and individual hymns work beautifully as preludes or interludes in larger programs. The optional lower string parts make it ideal for transition years when you're building ensemble flexibility or introducing students to the concept of flexible instrumentation within a single publication.

• Sustaining long lines and managing breath-length phrasing in instrumental music
• Balancing two independent melodic voices of equal importance
• Intonation refinement through sustained unison passages and harmonic awareness
• Listening to ensemble partners and adjusting dynamics to blend rather than dominate
• Musical interpretation informed by text and hymn tradition