Be Thou My Vision - Hymnal
ID 3403 · Structured composer unknown · Piano · Level 4 · Points 3150
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Collections: Hymns
First published: unknown. Completeness: unknown.“Be Thou My Vision” is a short hymn arrangement based on the traditional Irish hymn tune commonly known as SLANE. This version is written in 3/4 and keeps the texture clear and hymn-like, with the melody mostly in the right hand and simple supporting harmony in the left hand. The score includes five printed verses, so the music is closely connected to the hymn text throughout the arrangement.Measures 1–5 introduce the opening phrase, “Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart.” The right hand carries the main melody with mostly stepwise motion and small skips, while the left hand supports it with simple chord tones. The opening has a steady, prayerful character and avoids thick accompaniment patterns.Measures 6–10 continue the hymn with the next phrase, “Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.” The melody stays clear and singable, while the left hand adds gentle harmonic support underneath. A few slurs help shape the phrase, and the music moves naturally toward the middle of the hymn.Measures 11–16 complete the arrangement with the final line, “Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.” The melody moves through a calm closing phrase, and the left hand keeps the harmony steady. The final measures bring the hymn to a settled cadence, ending with a quiet and simple conclusion.Interesting fact: “Be Thou My Vision” comes from an old Irish hymn text often associated with Dallán Forgaill. The English version was shaped by Mary Elizabeth Byrne and Eleanor Hull, and the hymn later became widely sung with the Irish folk tune SLANE. The tune name is connected with Slane, Ireland, a place also associated with stories about St. Patrick.
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