Near the Cross
Fanny Crosby’s hymn text, “Near the Cross,” is a meaningful, devotional prayer that is especially useful for the Lenten season or communion service. Joel Raney captured its spiritual essence in a piano solo that Arnold B. Sherman has now adapted for 3-5 octaves handbells and 3 octaves of optional handchimes. The addition of strings or a synthesized string part added makes this an enthralling musical experience. A total of 60 measures, "Near the Cross" is set in Eb Major.