Sacred Harmony
1780/81, 1790

Sacred Harmony or a choice Collection of Psalms and Hymns, Set to Music in two and three Parts for the Voice, Harpsichord & Organ, 1780/81, 1790, the final collection of hymn tunes published under John Wesley’s authority, expanded slightly upon the selection made in Select Hymns (1761, 1765) Select Hymns: with Tunes Annext. The more significant change came in the musical format; all tunes were printed with bass lines and a few also had a second melody part. The full title of the volume indicates that keyboard accompaniment was expected. As well as hymn tunes, the volume contains a small number of extended ‘set-piece’ anthems.

Sources
  • S.T. Kimbrough Jr and Carlton R. Young (eds), Sacred Harmony or a choice Collection of Psalms and Hymns, Set to Music in two and three Parts for the Voice, Harpsichord & Organ: A facsimile reprint with introduction and critical notes (2020)

Entry written by: MVC
Category: Person
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