on the rim

I don't know how to describe how I felt today directing our little ward choir.  They are so dedicated (they must be to put up with me directing)  The Spirit was so strong. I got an email from the license holder for Oxford University Press.  She was gracious enough to look up the song without a title, research and get back to me.  She told me that I could copy the tune as much as I needed for what I was doing.  We got a rough copy done before today, and were able to see the words and notes on the same page for the first time. My vision for the song played out beautifully the first time through.  Did we stumble through parts? Yes.  Without a doubt, as it is a minor key and if the notes aren't right, well....  To be truthful, I was so caught up in the moment that I didn't finish directing. (Trying not to cry)  I will try to make a recording when I get back from KC (this saturday, yeah!!!)  Our goal as the choir is to testify of the Firs...

This month marks 171 years since the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum while under the protection of the governor of Illinois in the jail in Carthage, IL.  June 27, 1844.  I have been tasked to assist in my ward's (local congregation) choir while the choir director is ill.  Twist my arm, right?  So, as we were in between songs, I was  given a free reign to come up with music.  It was crystal.  The song "Joseph Smith's First Prayer" done to a melody by Ralph Vaughan Williams.  I don't know the name of the tune, but it is found in the Hymnal of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. #284.  The first time I went through it, I knew it had to be done.  The feeling of the tune has made me feel so close to the Sacred Grove, near Palmyra, NY. The song was written by George Manwaring.  Here are the lyrics. 1. Oh, how lovely was the morning! Radiant beamed the sun above. Bees were humming, sweet b...