His Eye is on the Sparrow

This free style setting of the hymn tune His Eye is on the Sparrow focuses on the varied tonal colors and instrumental textures of the wind band. Solos for trumpet and alto saxophone highlight the verse statements and lead into the full band refrains. While the technical demands are for younger ensembles, the expressive quality of the music makes it appropriate for bands at all levels.

Program Notes

The beautiful hymn tune His Eye is on the Sparrow was written in 1905 by composer Charles H. Gabriel. Gabriel was a prolific writer of gospel song and music for hymnals. Under his name and several pseudonyms he has written over 7,000 songs. His Eye is on the Sparrow is one of his better known melodies. Singer Mahalia Jackson’s recording was honored with the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 2010.

This free setting for band adds original music and develops motives from the hymn tune throughout while exploring many different tonal colors and textures within the ensemble. Solos for trumpet and alto saxophone highlight the verse statements and lead into the full band refrains. While the technical demands are for younger ensembles, the expressive quality of the music makes it appropriate for bands at all levels.

Grade Level: 3
Copyright: 2019
Number of Players: Standard
Duration: 5:00
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Category: Concert Band

Listen to Recordings

Instrumentation

Flute 1/2
Oboe (opt.)
Bassoon 1/2 (opt.)
Clarinet 1
Clarinet 2/3
Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Trumpet 1
Trumpet 2/3
F Horn 1/2
F Horn 3/4
Trombone 1/2
Trombone 3
Euphonium
TC Baritone
Tuba

Timpani (3 drums)
Percussion 1 (Bells)
Percussion 2 (Suspended Cymbal, Mark Tree)