Instant Sheet Music

When I think of great Irish hymns, "Be Thou My Vision" comes to mind first. Clearly, it's everyone's favorite, and for good reason. These stirring words, originally written by an Irish Christian in the 8th century, have been combined with a traditional, Irish folk melody...and the result? A timeless hymn that speaks directly to the heart, giving believers an emotional outlet for expressing their worship to God.

With this arrangement, I wanted to capture everything Irish. The opening theme pictures a sunrise over the gently sloping, green hills. Beams of light pierce through the mist, as the introduction crescendos into the stately first verse. A sliding, fiddle-like melody dominates the second verse, accompanied by a gentle chordal pattern similar to that of an Irish harp. Verse three paints a quiet, pastoral scene. Finally, the misty morning theme returns and builds into a joyous, fourth verse finale rounding out the distinctly Celtic feel with images of clogging dancers, pounding drums, and droning bagpipes.