The hymn tune "Neander," also known as "Unser Herrscher," was composed by Joachim Neander in the 17th century. Well known in the present day as the melody of "Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty," and "Rise, Ye Children of Salvation," this tune has been published with at least seven other hymn texts. Dr. Hilfiger has used "Neander" as the starting point for the Partita, which is a set of elaborate variations on the familiar tune. The hymn melody makes this work a natural choice for use in worship, perhaps as prelude or during the offering, but the composition is interesting enough to be suitable for recitals as well. The composer prefers organ accompaniment, but Partita also works quite well with piano accompaniment.

"Here is a pleasant piece that would work very well in a church service... could be played by a strong middle school or average high school player... this piece is worth having..."
HORN CALL, October 2006.


Performance time for the full work is about 4:20, but the variations could be played separately, if desired.


The publisher is Really Good Music:

http://www.reallygoodmusic.com

.