African American Heritage Hymnal: 575 Hymns, Spirituals, and Gospel Songs

by Delores Carpenter (Editor), Nolan E. Williams Jr. (Editor)

Eight years of inspired work by a committee of more than 30 musicians and pastors, all leaders in African American worship and gospel music, have resulted in this compendium representing the common repertoire of African American churches across the United States. For the first time in an African American hymnal, traditional hymns and songs are notated to reflect performance practices found in the oral tradition of the black church in America. At a time when such traditions are falling victim to modern technology, this book strives to preserve this rich heritage for future generations. Presented are litanies for “Fifty-Two Sundays of Worshipful Celebration” outlining an African American church year, including such special days as Martin Luther King Sunday, Elders’ Day, Mother’s Day, and Men’s Day. Also included are 52 responsive scripture readings from the Old and New Testaments and an extensive index that includes scriptural and thematic cross-references.

Genres: Music, Reference, African American, Religion, Christian, Spirituality

1104 pages, Hardcover

First published January 28, 2001

Reviews

[ALLEN · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lift Every Voice and Sing." This is a WONDERFUL hymnal! It has been around over 15 years yet is still in print, even in this era of projected screens. It has all kinds of hymns -- both the Anglo-German-American hymnody we'd expect in "white" hymnals; of course gospel, spiritual and revival music too -- even some Modern Gospel, a total of 586 hymns and songs in all.

Also of note is its non-musical worship liturgy, aimed primarily at African-American worshipers but eminently "raidable" for music directors and liturgists at other churches. The book is very well fabricated and the buyer can expect it to last. Are you, like me, a "hymnal collector"? Or just like to have a few interesting hymnals near the piano for playing or impromptu praise and worship? Then buy this one -- you won't be sorry. Please note that Amazon currently has this African American Heritage Hymnal at a reasonable price; multiple copies can be ordered from the publisher, giamusic dot com of Bedford Park (suburban Chicago), Illinois, $16.00/ea. but shipping extra. https://www.giamusic.com/store/resour...

[Barbara]

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[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

African American Heritage Hymnal is nothing short of phenomenal. I wish I could give this hymnal more than 5 stars. In truth it is worth 20 stars. I am a liberal Christian and an evangelical, and I love to death music that is foot stomping, hand clapping and full of passion. This collection is good for congregations across the theological and denominational spectrum. It not only includes the hymns of our fathers and mothers but includes music from the contemporary worship, gospel and African American spirituals traditions. Many of these pieces I grew up with and many of them are new to me. Making a joyful noise unto the Lord makes me beam with joy and tears in my eyes and this collection is a must for any church musician, pastor, lay person or any person who lives vibrant Gospel music. As one of my favorite spirituals says, "I'm Gonna sing so God can use me- anytime, Lord, anytime!"

[Jason Comely · Rating 3 out of 5]

Many popular hymns here but I was hoping for more obscure African American spirituals. I will continue my search.