The opening bass motif coupled with the melodic shuffle rhythm creates the sense of a Broadway show tune. Unison women confidently sing of our assurance in Christ, “the Rock that is higher than I.” Stanza 2, set for unison men and background divided women, sings of the peace we have in Christ. The refrain, starting in measure 20, puts SATB voices in stacked chords moving through text founded on God, my refuge and aid. Stanza 3 juxtaposes three distinct rhythms and texts singing of the joy found in Christ. The refrain leads into stanza 4, again with three independent lines, set in F minor. A gradual crescendo builds throughout the final refrain punctuated by the keyboard stinger.
The accompaniment is highly stylized and supportive of the vocal parts. Although not very difficult, it is important that the accompanist be familiar with the shuffle style. Vocal parts have similar ranges with no unusual rhythms or harmonic colors. The shuffle style is also present in the choral parts. An easy going swing is sufficient to achieve the style.
Performance options include added light percussion underneath the voices, such as brushes on a snare.
Appropriate days: Service themes on Christ the Rock; and general worship.
Age Level 6-8
Difficulty of vocal parts 6
Difficulty of accompaniment 6
Style 2-4
Track Length:
File Size: 1.57 MB
