At the River is a contemporary arrangement of the old gospel hymn Shall We Gather at the River? by American hymn writer Robert Wadsworth Lowry (1826-1899). Lowry, a Baptist minister, tended congregations in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. He also served as professor of literature at the University of Lewisburg and as music editor at the Biglow Publishing Company. While he hoped to be known for his sermons, his legacy proved to be his hymns.
This arrangement follows a simple gospel hymn form. The verse at measure 3 should be played mezzo piano in a lyrical style, and the refrain at measure 11 should be played mezzo forte in a light rock style. The verse and refrain are presented again, but with changed orchestration and greater dynamic contrast. The final verse, marked Religioso, should be played forte with pious confidence. The arrangement concludes with a tranquil ending. Note that percussion 1 may be played on drum set. This will limit the number of players needed, but will deliver an authentic pop sound.