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Date of Graduation
12-13-2025
Semester of Graduation
Fall
Degree Name
Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)
Department
School of Music
First Advisor
Beth Chandler Cahill
Second Advisor
Katherine Axtell
Third Advisor
Stephen Bolstad
Fourth Advisor
Eric Guinivan
Abstract
This project presents five hymn tunes from the American Protestant (A.P.) tradition arranged for flute and piano, accompanied by a scholarly analysis of the historical, liturgical, and practical aspects of A.P. hymnody and congregational song. The accompanying document explores the development of A.P. hymnody, the background of each selected tune, the role of instruments, primarily the flute, in worship, and the challenges faced by church musicians in the twenty-first century. By examining both vocal and instrumental iterations of these melodies throughout history, the analysis aims to inform performers and program planners about stylistic and contextual considerations for contemporary services and recitals. The arrangements balance technical and artistic complexity appropriate for advanced, professional, and some intermediate flutists. They also emphasize liturgical relevance, accessibility for amateur pianists, and pedagogical value. Addressing issues such as resource limitations in rural congregations and the need for meaningful liturgical connections, the project offers arrangements that foster reflection and thematic coherence within worship. These pieces, each approximately five to seven minutes long, integrate thematic development, extended techniques, and original material, all designed to enhance musicianship and liturgical engagement. By bridging the gap between A.P. hymnody and sacred instrumental repertoire, these works fill a niche in scholarly and practical resources, providing church musicians with new, liturgically appropriate arrangements that promote both musical excellence and spiritual reflection.
