Jeremy S. Bakken has broken new ground for this durable hymn text based on John Stainer's tune "Magdelan." The opening stanza is presented in unison voices, with the ensuing sections moving through varying vocal textures and the compelling use of overlapped phrases and rhythmic augmentation. The piano accompaniment features ostinato-like figures and extended diatonic harmonies which provide a compelling sense of strength, all leading at the close to a simple re-statement in the altos of the text's central theme: "My hope is built." A fine new addition to your choral library!