February 1, 2025, marked the 75th anniversary of Concordia Publishing House’s Music department. That’s three-quarters of a century dedicated to publishing organ, choral, and handbell settings. Almost a lifetime of bringing you hymnals and music books to enhance your personal playing or congregational offerings. In celebration of these 75 years, we wanted to share some fun facts and questions. Put your knowledge to the test and see how much you know below.
How long has CPH been publishing music?
Trick question! CPH has always published music, from our very first day in 1869 when we took over publishing the Synod’s German hymnal. Yet, back then, there was no Music department. It wasn’t until 1950 that the few people who made up the scarce part-time music team became their own department. Edward Klammer was hired as the first full-time staff dedicated strictly to music on February 1, 1950.
What is the oldest setting still in print?
This piece even predates the founding of the Music department by five years. “Lord, Let at Last Thine Angels Come” from 1945 by Hans Leo Hassler is still available to purchase today. It was written for double chorus and is an important part of our musical history at CPH. Take a look at the setting below!
What was the first setting the Music department published?
Under Klammer, the first setting was “Hosanna to the Son of David” by Andreas Raselius. When it was first released, the setting only cost $0.24 to purchase. While it’s no longer available, this collection edited by Carl Schalk features a setting by Andreas Raselius so you can see the beauty of his historic compositions.
How many hymnals has CPH published?
Five! Starting in 1847, with Kirchen-Gesang-Buch für Evangelisch-Lutherische Gemeinden, all the way to today’s hymnal, Lutheran Service Book, the team has been very busy. That doesn’t count the numerous variations each hymnal has received throughout the years either, such as Lutheran Service Book: Devotional Edition and Lutheran Service Book: Companion to the Hymns. See the team’s hard work and dedication by viewing all of the hymnals available below.
When was the CPH Music YouTube Channel founded?
2016 is when our very first video was published, and since then we’ve continued to grow! Originally started as a way to share audio of newly released music, now it contains interviews from composers, playlists for home use, and seasonal reading sessions with curated lists for your church. Subscribe to see when we publish new videos or interviews.
What composer worked with CPH for more than 60 years?
Carl Schalk (1929–2021). He was a prolific composer whose settings and contributions to Worship Supplement (1969), Lutheran Book of Worship (1978), and Lutheran Service Book: Companion to the Hymns shaped much of today’s Lutheran hymnody. He composed hundreds of hymn tunes, many of which we are honored to have published.
A huge congratulations to the CPH Music department on their 75th anniversary. With God’s blessings, we hope to see them continue to thrive for many more years to come.
Explore the newest settings from a full 75 years of music.
