A beautiful hymn with rich harmonies and suspensions opens this fine work for beginning bands. As the lyrical melody reaches a final cadence, the piece then moves into a bombastic chant with a wealth of percussion. The theme is presented in different textures and students will explore the basic components of a fugue in an easy setting. Listeners and performers alike will be excited by the rhythmic drive of the percussion. In addition, consider using the opening as a daily chorale to work on intonation with your ensemble.