This setting by Kenneth Downie is based on the much-loved hymnal, 'Love Divine, All Loves Excelling', alternatively known as 'Blaenwern'. An optional organ part which can further enhance the last verse is included.
In explaining his arrangement, Kenneth Downie writes: "It has been a delight to work on this wonderful Welsh hymn tune — one which perfectly suits the majestic words by Charles Wesley.
It is all about a big, expansive, all-embracing God, and I have tried to capture this aspect of the words."
Memorable
He added: "The rising interval in the introduction is an important feature in developing the notion of a 'big God', and its reappearance near the end is intended to be very significant."
The hymn is full of memorable phrases which will hopefully inspire players, singers and conductors as they contemplate the text in preparation for any performance, culminating in the final lines:
'Changed from glory into glory,
Till in Heaven we take our place,
Till we cast our crowns before thee,
Lost in wonder, love and praise'.
Kenneth Downie added that the addition of the organ in the last verse was by special request of Peggy and Scott Thomas who commissioned the arrangement and should add to the majesty of the music, although not fundamental to any performance.
Rolling score
To view a rolling score video of this work visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4dM0fZaVug
PDFs available from: www.brookwrightmusic.com/product-page/love-divine-blaenwern-brass-band-william-rowlands-arr-kenneth-downie
Sheet music
Sheet music available from: www.brassband.co.uk
Difficulty Level: 4th Section +
Length: 4.00 minutes
