How Can I Keep From Singing?

Flute

English Horn

Clarinet in A 1

Clarinet in A 2

Bassoon 1 & 2

Horn in F 1 - F 4

Trombone

Tuba

Timpani

Percussion

Suspended Cymbal, Bass Drum, Wind Chimes, Tam-tam, Glockenspiel, Chimes 

Harp

SATB Choir

Violin I & II

Viola 

Cello

Contrabass

The text of this popular American hymn first appeared in The New York Observer (1868), titled “Always Rejoicing,” and attributed to "Pauline T." It appeared without attribution in The Christian Pioneer. William Bradbury included it in Bright Jewels for the Sunday School, published in 1869. Bradbury died a year before the collection was published. Robert Lowry, a Baptist preacher and hymn writer, was the designated editor. In that book, the initials “R.L.” appear above the music where the composer is credited, but the space for the author of the text is blank. 

 

This new setting for SATB choir and orchestra draws on the hymn’s inspiring theme of peace through faith, even in times of trial.