William Steffe

Battle Hymn 2000

The mainly unison, easy chorus parts in BATTLE HYMN 2000 mean you CAN prepare James Hosay's imaginative and inspiring version of 'The Battle Hymn of the Republic' for performance, even though opportunities for combined chorus and band rehearsals are hard to find. In fact, the dress rehearsal may be all you need to put on the finishing touches. It makes a spine-tingling finale for a combined choral/band concert (it can also be used as a stand-alone band piece). For a thrilling addition, consider having the chorus surround the audience while the band remains on stage. The surround-sound effect can be magnificent and it gives each member of the chorus a little personal stardom. Don't forget, having one piece at the end of the concert which includes everyone always helps to make sure you maintain a 'full house' for all your performing groups.