Composer

:

Daniel Read

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

1:32

"I send the joys of earth away" is a hymn composed by Daniel Read, an American composer and singing master, in the late 18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written around 1785. The hymn was first published in Read's collection of hymns, entitled "The American Singing Book," which was published in 1785. The hymn is written in four movements, each with its own distinct melody and character. The first movement is a slow and solemn introduction, setting the tone for the rest of the hymn. The second movement is more lively and upbeat, with a faster tempo and a more joyful melody. The third movement is slower and more contemplative, with a more introspective melody. The final movement is a return to the joyful and upbeat melody of the second movement, bringing the hymn to a triumphant conclusion. The lyrics of the hymn are based on a poem by Isaac Watts, a prominent English hymn writer of the 18th century. The poem, entitled "The Vanity of the World," is a meditation on the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures and the need to focus on spiritual matters. The hymn's lyrics reflect this theme, urging the listener to turn away from the joys of the world and focus on the joys of heaven. Musically, "I send the joys of earth away" is a prime example of the early American hymn tradition. The hymn features simple, straightforward melodies and harmonies, with a focus on clear and direct expression of the text. The hymn is also notable for its use of shape-note notation, a system of musical notation developed in the United States in the early 19th century that uses different shapes to represent different notes. Overall, "I send the joys of earth away" is a powerful and moving hymn that reflects the deep spiritual convictions of its composer and the early American hymn tradition. Its timeless message of the need to focus on spiritual matters and turn away from the fleeting pleasures of the world continues to resonate with listeners today.

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