An American Hymnsong (Blessed Assurance) by Joseph Benjamin Earp
An American Hymnsong (Blessed Assurance) by Joseph Benjamin Earp
Premiered Monday, November 20th, 2023
Clemson University Symphonic Band
Dr. Mark Spede, Conductor
(Clemson, South Carolina)
“An American Hymnsong” was written as a gift by my wife, Mary Beth, and myself honoring our dear Grandma Evelyn. This amazing woman has been a staple musician at Taylor Memorial Pentecostal Holiness in Anderson County, South Carolina, and the surrounding community for over 75 years.
Most of the thematic material for this work is based on a tune written by Phoebe Palmer Knapp (1839-1908) in the mid to late 1800’s. It was then set to text by Fanny Crosby and called Blessed Assurance, which was published in 1873. Blessed Assurance has grown to fame over the years and is now recognized as a standard church hymn. This hymn is one of Grandma Evelyn’s favorites and is perfect to honor her love of music and dedication to her community and family.
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