If the Way Be Full of Trial, Weary Not - Music by John R. Sweney (1837-1899)
Text by William H. Flaville (1829-1897)
Arranged for Mixed SATB Chorus and Piano by Betsy Lee Bailey
"If the Way Be Full of Trial, Weary Not" is a 19th century gospel song that was included in Christian hymnals from the late 1870's. It was included 1909 edition of the LDS “Deseret Sunday School Songs,” and in the 1951 LDS children’s songbook “The Children Sing.” This hymn had a re-introduction into the LDS music scene when the Tabernacle Choir was requested to sing it on the "Golden Days, 85th Birthday Celebration Concert" for President Thomas S. Monson in 2012. The message is so typical of President Monson's ministry which can be summed up as "never tire of well-doing and always be ready to go to the rescue." This is a great message on the Ministering theme.
This is my third John R. Sweney hymn to arrange, the first for SATB choir. I can well believe what was written about this composer and famous choral/band leader, "Sweney knows how to make a congregation sing!" The melodies for "The Lord Is My Light," "There Is Sunshine in My Soul Today," and "If the Way Be Full of Trial, Weary Not" are soaring and well-suited to the solo singer. Your choir will enjoy singing "If the Way Be Full of Trial, Weary Not" because each voice part gets a chance to shine singing the melody and some fun counter melodies.
This is my third John R. Sweney hymn to arrange, the first for SATB choir. I can well believe what was written about this composer and famous choral/band leader, "Sweney knows how to make a congregation sing!" The melodies for "The Lord Is My Light," "There Is Sunshine in My Soul Today," and "If the Way Be Full of Trial, Weary Not" are soaring and well-suited to the solo singer. Your choir will enjoy singing "If the Way Be Full of Trial, Weary Not" because each voice part gets a chance to shine singing the melody and some fun counter melodies.
