Out On The Line

by Teresa Jennings

In times of trouble, there have always been people who step up to help. Think of all the hurricanes and floods, fires, and other natural disasters. Think also of September 11, 2001. There was no shortage of heroes rushing into harm's way for the good of the many. It's no different when a pandemic sweeps the entire world, putting so many lives at risk.

When we first saw and heard of the tales of everyone who gave so much (and still do), we were compelled to honor them. And we're not just talking about doctors, nurses, and medical personnel in the trenches, though they are truly deserving of our gratitude. We're also talking about all of the essential workers, the ones who tried to make sure the rest of us could continue to function in a new, strange normal. The tales of heroism continue to this day, and we have no doubt they will as long as there is need among fellow humans. These heroes inspire us.

The song, "Out On The Line" was written to be simple and hymnlike, something a congregation could sing even. Indeed, it can be performed in unison quite nicely. We have created a unison version of it for you, in case that is more helpful. (See track 29 on the recording.) Parts 2 and 3 are optional, but are very nice and they add a lovely depth to the song if you are able to use them. We have isolated the rehearsal tracks for both parts and put them online for you. Remember to ask older students, teachers, parents, anyone in the neighborhood to join in. We all owe our thanks to these brave men and women out on the line.

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.