Reformation Day brings about well-loved favorites in the Lutheran Church with multiple settings for musicians to choose from. Read on to see our top five downloadable Reformation Day settings for choir, organ, and handbells from the CPH Music Subscription.
The Holy Word of God Endures Forever | SATB, Organ, Trumpet, Timpani
Challenge your musicians with a hymn concertato on a Stephen P. Starke text by Jeffrey Blersch, scored for SATB choir, trumpet, timpani, and congregation. This setting was dedicated to the glory of God at the publication of The Lutheran Study Bible and would make a wonderful Reformation piece for your congregation. This dignified piece confesses the truth of the Scriptures, opening with inspiring trumpet, timpani, and organ fanfare that continues into a triumphant entrance from the choir. Instrumental parts and a reproducible congregational page are included with your download and can be printed as needed.
Salvation unto Us Has Come | Unison, SATB, Piano, Organ
Composed by Sam Eatherton with the text by Paul Speratus, this joyous setting declares the salvation we have in Christ’s sacrifice. Unison voicing makes this piece come together as one, following Lutheran Service Book 555. Piano or Organ make a nice accompaniment to the voices for your congregation to hear.
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God | Organ
A timeless classic for Reformation Day, this setting of EIN FESTE BURG by Kevin J. Sadowski is perfect for your organists. Following the Lutheran Service Book 656 version of “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” your congregation can enjoy this hymn introduction as they prepare to sing. Use this setting year after year, and consider others in the 21 Hymn Introductions collection for use throughout the Church Year.
Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word | Organ
Composed by Kevin Hildebrand to the tune ERHALT UNS, HERR, this piece will intrigue your congregation with a creative moving harmony. While familiar, this piece is driven and evoking for your members to reflect on during Reformation Day. This ostinato is perfect for organists looking for something different and musically challenging.
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God | 2–3 Octave Handbells
This piece, arranged by Sondra K. Tucker for two or three octaves of handbells, is a beautiful and joyful reminder of Luther’s hymn. The dancelike rhythm in 9/8 adds a light and refreshing feeling to the hymn tune, making it perfect for a short offertory or closing. This spin on a classic and well-known tune is sure to satisfy both traditional and contemporary worshipers.
For more downloadable sheet music for any part of the Church Year, create a CPH Music Subscription account today.
