Fall 1990

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One way to introduce a song with great words but difficult music is to sing it to a familiar tune. And likewise, familiar words can take on new meaning and power when placed in a new musical context.

This is why I rely on the metrical index, a feature in many of the better hymnals. Because likemetered hymns are virtually interchangeable, this can add freshness to congregational singing.

The following list represents just a few examples of the hundreds of possibilities a metrical index provides. The numerals indicate the number of syllables per line; the letter D stands for a doubled (repeated) metrical pattern.

Long Meter-8,8,8,8

All People (Old 100th)

Jesus Shall Reign

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

'Tis Midnight

Just As I Am

O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee

Doxology

Short Meter-6,6,8,6

A Charge to Keep

Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart

Come We That Love the Lord

Blest Be the Tie

I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord

Breathe on Me

Short Meter Double-6,6,8,6D

Crown Him with Many Crowns

This Is My Father's World

Make Me a Captive, Lord

Common Meter-8,6,8,6

Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee

O for a Thousand Tongues

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

Majestic Sweetness

All Hail the Power

Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed

O God, Our Help in Ages Past

Amazing Grace

Joy to the World

Common Meter Double-8,6,8,6D

The Son of God Goes Forth

I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say

I Sing the Mighty Power of God

It Came Upon the Midnight Clear

O Little Town of Bethlehem

8,7,8,7D

Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken

Hail, Thou Once Despised Jesus

Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Once to Every Man and Nation

What a Friend We Have in Jesus

Alleluia (Chorus)

Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us

Oh, the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus

7,7,7,7,7,7

Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me

For the Beauty of the Earth

Rock ...

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