Overview

Here are the full original texts of 150 of the best loved hymns in the English language. Each is accompanied by a fascinating commentary, giving biographical details of the author (such as the Calvinist creator of Rock of Ages who once calculated that the average human sins 2,522,880,000 times); notes on the circumstances in which the hymn was written; and variant versions. Each hymn is prefaced by an urbanely written and agreeably subjective commentary with a wealth of anecdotes and a few ribald parodies. This charming book should also be required reading for all those responsible for choosing hymns in church. Ian Bradley writes with wit, elegance and charm and is quite exceptionally knowledgeable about his subject.

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9780826482822

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Reviews

'this is [a] most welcome development, especially at a time when the media generally seem to focus on the negative aspects of religion and church music....This would be ideal as a first book for those interested in hymnody or those wishing to write notes for Sunday service sheets.' ~ Julian Elloway, Church Music Quarterly Reviews Webber gives concise information on how the services of morning and evening prayer began, were established and became the services we know today. He describes the background and history of uses of the Scriptural lessons, prayers, hymns, canticles and the collects and their sources. His comments and suggestions are well-written, informative and helpful. -Faithworks, May 2006 'Readers with any interest in the backgrounds of the hymns we sing will revel in this fascinating compilation of musical tales....Bradley's erudition is extensive, but he writes with a light, frequently breezy, yet respectful style that makes browsing his 150 rather an addictive pleasure...Bradley's enjoyable dictionary is certainly worthy of all academic libraries and parish libraries supporting an active music ministry.' -- Daniel Boice * Catholic Library World * '...very good it is, too...a book to dip into or read from cover to cover...' * Methodist Recorder * 'compelling reading...the editors of this magnum opus have succeeded admirably in their aims. Dr Bradley's book deepens our understanding of many of the hymns included in the larger volume. The message of Christianity is here in our language, for all to read, study, pray, sing and enjoy' * Spectator, The * '...there is a great deal for hymn-lovers to enjoy.' -- Keith Mitchell * Tablet, The *

'this is [a] most welcome development, especially at a time when the media generally seem to focus on the negative aspects of religion and church music....This would be ideal as a first book for those interested in hymnody or those wishing to write notes for Sunday service sheets.' ~ Julian Elloway, Church Music Quarterly Reviews   ""Webber gives concise information on how the services of morning and evening prayer began, were established and became the services we know today. He describes the background and history of uses of the Scriptural lessons, prayers, hymns, canticles and the collects and their sources. His comments and suggestions are well-written, informative and helpful."" -Faithworks, May 2006   'Readers with any interest in the backgrounds of the hymns we sing will revel in this fascinating compilation of musical tales....Bradley's erudition is extensive, but he writes with a light, frequently breezy, yet respectful style that makes browsing his 150 rather an addictive pleasure...Bradley's enjoyable dictionary is certainly worthy of all academic libraries and parish libraries supporting an active music ministry.' -- Daniel Boice * Catholic Library World * '...very good it is, too...a book to dip into or read from cover to cover...' * Methodist Recorder * 'compelling reading...the editors of this magnum opus have succeeded admirably in their aims. Dr Bradley's book deepens our understanding of many of the hymns included in the larger volume. The message of Christianity is here in our language, for all to read, study, pray, sing and enjoy' * Spectator, The * '...there is a great deal for hymn-lovers to enjoy.' -- Keith Mitchell * Tablet, The *

'...there is a great deal for hymn-lovers to enjoy.' Keith Mitchell, The Tablet '...very good it is, too...a book to dip into or read from cover to cover...' Methodist Recorder

Author Information

Ian Bradley is Reader in Practical Theology and Church History at the University of St Andrews, a minister in the Church of Scotland and a prolific author and broadcaster. His previous books include The Daily Telegraph Book of Hymns, The Daily Telegraph Book of Carols, Pilgrimage: A Spiritual and Cultural Journey and God Save the Queen: The Spiritual Heart of Monarchy.

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