Mighty Fortress
This flexible arrangement is designed to be used as a congregational hymn accompaniment, including brass quintet, timpani, organ and mixed chorus. However, all the vocal and instrumental forces are optional, and the handbell part can be played alone. The arrangement includes an introductory fanfare, four stanzas with an interlude between the third and fourth stanzas, and an optional ending. The music of the third stanza is particularly descriptive of the war-like text, using dissonant chords, martellato lifts and shaking, and ending triumphantly. 106 measures in length, this majestic piece is set in C Major.