JSC Sing for Joy

Though the piece is not terribly difficult, it will need to have enough rehearsal time to correctly interpret the various styles, dynamics and tempo changes involved in this 'montage' of Sydney Cox's songs. All of the songs have wonderful melodic lines and the theology behind the associated texts need to be studied in order that the full impact of the message is projected to the listener.

This is a joyful collection and the energy must be constant, even in the slower tempi. The opening semi-quavers must be even, controlled and at a steady tempo Whenever a featured song is present, it must always take priority over all other musical material.

At section C, the melody, I am amazed (T.B. 668) in the Horns, should be sustained while the short interjections by the Baritones, Euphoniums and Basses (and later other instruments) must be very exacting. Be careful that the quaver-semiquaver figure isn't influenced by the crotchet triplets. This is not a swing rhythm and should be interpreted as written. They should be crisp, clean and rhythmically correct. The legato crochet triplets also apply to all of the other instruments that play this rhythm throughout this section.

The rall. leading into section E sets up the new 6/8 time signature. The quavers at section E should begin at the same speed as the crochet triplets in the preceding bar. Section E should flow smoothly in two beats per bar. Be careful that this section doesn't become to pedantic and unmusical. Allow the players to shape the phrases.

Section G should be in conducted in six and, with a bit of a rall., it should flow easily into bar 65. Espressivo is the important directive here, as the melodies and associated text are deeply inspirational. At section H, the prayer chorus Lord, make Calvary real to me (S.A.S.B. 182) is not a completed thought as the supplicant begins to look forward to a life of service for the Lord.

Section K must have a buoyant and energetic spirit to keep the tempo moving forward and the message strong ﾡﾪ There's joy in following Jesus all the way (S.A.S.B. 898). This new exuberant tempo must remain steadfast until the finale of the montage, in order that the thoughts contained in the text portray a happy and dedicated joy in serving the Lord.

There are several tunes that are only included as transitional material, but this does not mean that they hold lesser importance. The texts need to be learned and understood, so that the message of the music is never lost or diminished.