One More River

arr. Paul Jennings

Whether you use this as a part of African-American History Month or just because it is a favorite call and response tune, this wonderful old spiritual has always been a favorite of ours. As with many traditional tunes, there are many possible variations on lyrics and performance. On the recording, the first and ninth verses were sung by all. Every other verse was sung with a soloist starting each line, and all answers and choruses sung by all. The other twist in this arrangement is the addition of percussion setting up a traditional rhythm under the 6/8 rolling feel. You will hear congas, hoe blade, shekere (shakers), and a special part for kalimba, an African thumb piano.

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.