Rooted in expressions of both suffering and hope, the African-American spiritual brings depth and richness to the body of American folk music. Beginning with a prayerful statement of the opening text, and then moving to a swing-style treatment of the music, Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel? spreads a message of optimism, patience and perseverance. Syncopation, jazz and swing articulations, and bow styles are all focal points-minimal position work is required in the cello and bass.