Shepherd's Hymn After the Storm
This selection from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (“The Pastoral”) musically depicts the clearing of the sky following a thunderstorm and builds into a joyful, hymn-like melody. Written in 3/4 time rather than Beethoven’s original 6/8 and using only quarter, half, and dotted-half notes, the arrangement is easy enough for beginning ringers yet contains dynamic contrasts and techniques to challenge more experienced ensembles as well. While especially fitting for school and community concert settings, the piece is also appropriate for church worship in celebrating the grandeur of God’s creation. It is 137 measures and is arranged in F Major.