It was an honor to review this special book for the simple reason that I love the great hymns. Their stories have a depth that speaks to my soul. Thank you, Robert Morgan, for continuing the series.
In 2003, Robert Morgan released what would become a future classic for over a million readers, a unique book entitled Then Sings My Soul. This collection of the world's greatest hymns and the stories behind them stirred an entire generation to better understand the heritage of our faith through song.
Now, in the long-awaited third volume of this series, Morgan expands his material to include the great history of worship, the first biblical hymns, biographical sketches of the most interesting composers, and almost 60 generations of hymn singing. The new book also includes a collection of the greatest hymns you've never heard, with lead-sheets included.
All of this is in addition to even more standard hymns and the stories of the composers behind them.
Morgan's conclusion guides the reader into enjoying all of God's music, blending the old and the new into a symphony of praise that keeps the worship alive for a new generation.
I read this book in stages so I could digest the story of each hymn. The book has a permanent place in my music library, as I teach piano and have had the privilege of singing and playing almost all of the hymns in this book throughout my lifetime.
Mr. Morgan's expanded stories of six hymns in Part 3 will bring a brighter appreciation for those songs. Wait until you read more of the story behind "It Is Well With My Soul"!!!
Finally, I'd like to applaud the author's opinion of Why We Must Embrace Interwoven Worship. I completely agree with his thoughts concerning how we will lose a heritage with a rich legacy of the "great cloud of witnesses" who have preceded us. If you attend any church, and sing praise choruses or old hymns, please take the time to read his thoughts. I would encourage all of us to extend an open mind to the new and the old songs of the church.
With that said, I recommend this book for all music lovers, so that you have a richer knowledge of an important element in music.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
