from Hymncharts arranger Don Chapman:
Most of us in the U.S. grew up singing When I Survey the Wondrous Cross to one familiar melody, so it can be a little surprising to discover the hymn has multiple tunes floating around in the wild.
In fact, When I Survey has at least three melodies in use today, and I’ve just finished arranging the third one (for the first time): ROCKINGHAM.
Why ROCKINGHAM?
ROCKINGHAM feels both fresh and familiar. It carries the weight of the text, but with different, soaring melodic contour that makes the words hit you in a new way. I arranged it for piano, acoustic guitar, and cello, so it has a warm, uncluttered sound that works beautifully for reflective moments like Good Friday or communion. The simple, classic Hymncharts style is designed to support congregational singing, not show off the band.
This alternate melody has about an octave range, which makes the key choice important depending on who’s leading:
- Female worship leader: best in C
- Male worship leader: best in D
Quick Hymn-Nerd Bonus!
The ROCKINGHAM tune was composed (technically adapted) by Edward Miller in 1790, and it’s sung more commonly in the UK. I had never heard of Edward Miller until I arranged his tune, and even the more “obscure” hymn people have fascinating stories!
Miller was musically talented as a teen, ran away from home to escape the family stone-laying business, and somehow ended up playing flute in Handel’s orchestra (yes, THE Handel). I’ll do a deeper dive on Miller soon over on Hymndex.com.
My favorite part of this arrangement is the little “gotcha” chord right at the end, the kind of moment that the congregation feel something shift (even if they can’t explain why).
If you’re looking for a fresh way to present When I Survey the Wondrous Cross without losing the weight and reverence of the text, ROCKINGHAM is a great option.
Download When I Survey (ROCKINGHAM)
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Get this arrangement of When I Survey (ROCKINGHAM) only at Hymncharts.com – you won’t find this fresh take anywhere else! As the arranger, I’m offering this new version exclusively on my website.
