Old Songs Hymnal

"Old Songs Hymnal" is a landmark collection of spirituals and traditional hymns compiled and arranged by Dorothy G. Bolton and the pioneering African American composer Harry T. Burleigh. This volume serves as a vital cultural record, preserving the authentic melodies and lyrics of the spirituals that form the bedrock of American music history. Burleigh, widely recognized for his instrumental role in elevating African American folk music to the concert stage, ensures that each arrangement retains the emotional power and spiritual resonance of its origins.The hymnal provides a comprehensive look at the "old songs" that sustained generations, offering a deep well of inspiration for musicians, historians, and congregations alike. Its contents span a range of themes, from sorrow and longing to hope and liberation, reflecting the profound resilience of the African American experience. By documenting these traditionally oral compositions in a formal hymnal structure, the work facilitates the continued study and performance of a unique American art form. "Old Songs Hymnal" remains a significant contribution to musicology and a cherished resource for those seeking to engage with the rich heritage of sacred song.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant. Read more