Augsburg Fortress

Each time a new hymnal is published a fresh set of tunes is available for congregational song. Some are newly composed, but many—including most in this collection—are derived from folk songs drawn from an increasingly wide circle of cultures. Composers, organists, and song leaders are then blessed with a rich variety of melodies from which to draw inspiration, as well as a need to play settings that introduce and interpret these tunes for their congregations. While the particular inspiration for this collection was the 2013 publication of Glory to God by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), these tunes are also found in other denominational hymnals and supplements. Because hymns are primarily intended for the assembly to sing together, each organ setting is followed by an introduction and harmonization to enliven the congregational singing of these tunes during worship. This collection is dedicated to Nathan Proctor, for whom they were written and whose hymn playing continually inspires congregations to sing.