Each hymn is arranged with an Introduction, the body of the hymn (for congregational participation), and a Modulation / Interlude to raise the key for the final stanza. The Introduction is designed so as to avoid the average playing through of a hymn to introduce it as well as to provide the congregation with a sense of something special. The body of the hymn for congregational singing is based on the normal writings found in most hymnals. The final stanza for most of the hymns contain some harmonic changes which vary from mild to moderate. America Angel's Story Beecher Darwall's 148th Ein' Feste Burg Faithfulness Foundation Germany Hamburg Hanover Joy To The World Lambilotte Lasst Uns Erfreuen Laudes Domini Lobe den Herren Moscow O Store Gud Puer Nobis Nascitur Salzburg St. Flavian St. Thomas The First Nowell Truro Wareham Wunderbarer König Hymnary.org and other websites have comprehensive lists of the texts that may be sung to these tunes.
About the Author: erved as an Artist-Teacher in the Music Department of Moravian College, Bethlehem, PA for nearly 30 years. He also served as a visiting instructor at Lafayette College, Easton, PA. Piano lessons were begun at age 11 and organ instruction at age 13 with an appointment as organist of St. Matthews Lutheran Church, Kellers Church, PA shortly after the start of organ lessons. Following graduation from high school and service in the U. S. Marine Corps during the Korean War, he studied at the Philadelphia Conservatory of Music as an organ major of Dr. Robert Elmore. He studied for 6 1?2 years as a private student with Eleanor Sokoloff (of Curtis Institute). Summer study included teachers Susan Starr, Kenneth Amada and Natalie Hinderas. He has spent many years in the capacity as Organist and Choir Director, teaching workshops, maintaining a private teaching practice and performing regularly as a soloist and accompanist on both piano and organ. A music critic in the press stated: "Van Auken is a fastidious pianist; he negotiated Chopin's SECOND BALLADE with aplomb and a good sense of contrast . .". On another occasion, "For many, the highlight of the afternoon was Richard Van Auken's sensitive presentation of Yon's CONCERTO GREGORIANO for organ and orchestra; sustained applause brought Van Auken back . . . ". In addition to teaching, performing, conducting workshops, and having recorded albums of organ music, he has written articles concerning piano pedagogy which have been published by the American Piano Teachers Association and American Music Teachers Journal. With a keen interest in the learning and teaching process, Van Auken has had students win college scholarships to some of the best schools as well as awards in Local, State, National, and International Competitions. Public interest in Van Auken's performances provided excellent attendance at Longwood Gardens recitals and at the National Cathedral, Washington, DC where he had one of the best attendances of that concert series. His musical understanding and achievements led to his serving as a consultant and musical coach for a production by the New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center during the 2001 season.