The Mennonite Hymnal [Hardcover]

This Hymnal is a treasure to me. It has a variety of hymns, including many German hymns (many translated by Catherine Winkworth), English hymns, (including some with music by Ralph Vaughn Williams), and a select number of gospel hymns. The arrangements are always beautiful. I love the many songs which I have found only in this hymnal.

This hymnal contains 619 hymns, plus 34 "musical aids" which include benediction responses and amens. The layout is very practical and readable. I have the utmost admiration for the Mennonites' practical, no-nonsense mentality. The hymnal is presented as it is, with no pretense, no putting-on of airs .. and yet musically it is far superior to (and more USEFUL than) other hymnals I own which have a more sanctimonious attitude.

I was surprised to receive the shape-note edition since I did not specifically request it. I didn't even know it was available, or that anybody still published shape-note hymnals. The shape notes remind me of my childhood, attending the old-time Church of Christ in central Kentucky. The editors mention in the introduction that the hymns have all been arranged for singing in four-part harmony, _often unaccompanied_, which I have not heard a congregation do since my great-grandmother died. This is a hymnal for people who really SING!

The selection of music is wonderfully eclectic. Hymns have been culled from nearly the entire range of Christian musical history. There is a high proportion of grand old German hymns .. and the music has not been simplified or "dumbed down" to make it easier to sing. Just one example: "A Mighty Fortress" is presented with the original syncopated rhythm as written by Martin Luther. Everywhere else I have encountered that hymn, it has been homogenized into an even, square rhythm. There are also lots of elaborate harmonizations by Bach.. great stuff.

Not all of the music is classical and fancy. The hymnal contains a smattering of modern material (original publication date 1969) and plenty of "old standard" favorites that are indispensable to any Protestant hymnal. There's a section of the book devoted entirely to Gospel songs, and at the end just before the "musical aids to worship" there is a section of 24 "choral hymns" which the editors describe as "more difficult" and recommend for choirs (though still usable for congregational singing if desired.) In terms of musical complexity these hymns are insane! But they are still set in 4-part harmony with the serious expectation that some congregations might sing them. I have to respect that kind of confidence.

Flipping through this hymnal always makes me smile .. and I often wish I went to a church where people DID sing such challenging material. It's great stuff. I highly recommend this hymnal for church musicians of any denomination. You will find something in there to like.

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