This hymn is well-known throughout America, though its composer and origin are unknown. It gained notoriety in the 1930s as African-American churches met for large singing conventions. It is also a staple of the famous jazz funerals of New Orleans.
Arranged to honor the band teaching career of Barbara Lovett, the setting was designed to capture her peaceful and warm spirit. The rocking eighth note figures that begin in measure 2 portray the constant pulse of the life of Barbara Lovett: faithful and steady for her students, family and friends.
just-a-closer-walk-with-thee.mp3
