How Can I Keep From Singing?
SSA choral/piano score
PEL2034-Choir and Piano
Instrumental parts
PEL2034-IP
Full score and parts for trumpet and strings
PEL2034-FS/IP
A WORK FOR SSA CHOIR AND PIANO WITH OPTIONAL TRUMPET AND ORGAN OR STRINGS
The beautiful Shaker hymn, that speaks of soaring faith and grace in the midst of tyranny and oppression, is given a very American sound here in the simple, clean harmonies Halley uses to echo the meaning of the text. The use of antiphonal voices throughout furthers the plaintive quality of the song. Piano with trumpet and organ, or strings, are the perfect accompaniment. Halley's arrangement of this beloved song may become your new favorite.
Texts
How Can I Keep From Singing?
Words and Music: Quaker Folk Hymn
Arranged by Paul Halley (1952 - )
My life flows on in endless song;
Above earth’s lamentation
I hear the real though far-off hymn
That hails a new creation.
Through all the tumult and the strife,
I hear that music ringing;
It sounds an echo in my soul;
How can I keep from singing?
When tyrants tremble, sick with fear,
And hear their death-knell ringing;
When friends rejoice, both far and near,
How can I keep from singing?
In prison cell and dungeon vile
Our thoughts to them are winging;
When friends by shame are undefiled:
How can I keep from singing?
What though the tempest loudly roars,
I hear the Truth, it liveth!
What though the darkness round me close,
Songs in the night it giveth.
No storm can shake my inmost calm
While to that Rock I’m clinging;
Since Love is Lord of heav’n and earth:
How can I keep from singing?
