PRIMARY AND JUNIOR SONGS FOR THE SUNDAY SCHOOL A HANDBOOK OF CHANTS, HYMNS, SUPPLEMENTARY SONGS BY MARI R. HOFER PRICE, 40c., NET CHICAGO: CLAYTON F. SUMMY COMPANY 220 WABASH AVENUE Copyright, 1901, by Clayton F. Summy Co. Mac 492.30. 1901rZ M 2193 1901 FOREWORD HE broader methods applied to Sunday School teaching today give TH ample opportunity for the use of good music. Two ideas have been distinctly in the minds of those interested in the contents of this book-the need of more music for the purposes of worship and praise, and material which would serve for programs throughout the year. With the present undue tendency to interest children from the so-called "child-like" standpoint, there is danger of ignoring the child's natural response to the serious and noble in religious sentiment, and with it much beautiful music which comes under this class. To furnish music suitable to young children, arranged somewhat in program order; instrumental suggestions; the "Song Story"; appropriate Bible texts accompanied by worthy instrumental settings, gives this book a reason for being. For the expression of religious sentiment, the old forms of Response, the Chant, the Choral and Hymn, are particularly suitable and should find place in the regular Sunday School program. Here the simplicity and dignity of music and words, the natural flow of voice in song and speech, makes it possible for the youngest child to participate vocally, and to be impressed spiritually. From a historical as well as musical standpoint, these classics should not be allowed to die out of the experience of our children, or to be entirely superseded by music of a lighter and more popular order. Some of the criticisms of the "growing lack of reverence" can be met here. The selections offered under Nature and Miscellaneous topics have been carefully studied from the standpoint of appropriateness of text and music, contrast, general tunefulness and singableness. Processionals suitable for different times and occasions of the year will serve as an element of change and action. Chicago, June 20, 1901. HARVARD COLLEGE 1940 LIBRARY Gratis M. R. Hofer. I SUGGESTIONS T IS generally claimed that it is impossible to use good music in Sunday School for lack of time and opportunity for its development In order to present it successfully it is as necessary to study the characteristics of a musical selection as that of a reading. When children are helped to understand the " story" of the music as well as that of the words they soon discriminate and assist in its interpretation. The opening music on pages 4 and 5, and other selections of a like character, will help to this result. method should be used with songs. The same The Bible selections with accompanying responses should be incorporated in the general exercises throughout the year. If used these should be frequently repeated until the words and music become a part of the childrens' experience. In using the Responses it is urged that the meaning and dramatic intent of the text be carefully considered. Help the children to sing these as they would speak them. Much of attack and breathing is implied in this, as bodily activity will correspondingly follow mental action. Care should be taken to play the Responses, Sentences and Chorals in well marked, progressive time, not too slowly for young children. The hold at the end of the line in the Choral, makes a natural breathing place. In the Chant the time element for the reciting note must be supplied in the grouping of the words in the phrase. The same law in regard to emphasis and pauses should be observed in chanting as in reading. The rule is to lean more towards speaking than singing. The cadences after the reciting line should be in strict time. M. R. H. Thanks are due to the suggestion and inspiration gained in active work with the New Jersey State Primary Union, and the hearty personal co-operation of its workers. To the generous assistance of Miss Josephine L. Baldwin, State Primary Superintendent of New Jersey for words and texts. To Mrs. Fanny Snow Knowlton and Mr. A. C. Graham, for musical assistance. NOTE. The following church hymns are suggested as suitable for memory work. Two hymns should be learned each year in the primary grade, and used frequently as a part of the program: Joy to the World the Lord is Come.-Antioch. All Hail the Power of Jesus Name.-Coronation. |