Augsburg Fortress

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

Amy Engelsdorfer sets Isaac Watts’s beloved text with a fresh, melodic line that reflects the solemnity and adoration of the text. This SAB setting balances flowing, soaring melodies with call and response, and an easy-to-medium accompaniment adds depth and drama. The piece is easy to learn and makes a stunning addition to any service.
  • In stock

$2.50

  • Publisher Augsburg Fortress
  • Format Sheet Music
  • ISBN 9781506422206
  • Brand Augsburg Choral Library
  • Dimensions 7 x 10.25
  • Pages 8
  • Season/Occasion Lent & Holy Week
  • Difficulty Easy-Medium
  • Voicing Piano; SAB/3-part mixed
  • Publication Date October 17, 2016

Video

Composer Commentary

I wrote “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” for the Decorah First United Methodist Church as part of a more Tenebrae service, in which modern stories of suffering were used beside the ageless story of Jesus’ suffering and death. I wanted my setting to express the simple yet profound devotion of Isaac Watts’s text, but I didn’t want it to be overwrought. I think many of our so-called “traditional” hymns have truly stunning texts, but we sometimes forget that as we sing the traditional tunes that are associated with them. I was inspired by Christian artist Dr. Christopher Grundy, who pointed out that simply giving these texts a new setting can be an exciting avenue of exploration and a wonderfully creative way for us to deepen our faith. My choir truly enjoyed getting to know this new setting, and our congregation was moved by our performance of it. I hope you enjoy it as well.
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