Composer

:

American Traditional

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Average_duration

:

1:56

"I Will Bow and Be Simple" is a traditional American Shaker hymn, also known as "Simple Gifts." The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the late 18th or early 19th century by an anonymous Shaker composer. The hymn was first performed by the Shakers, a religious sect known for their simple and communal way of life, and has since become a popular folk song. The hymn consists of four verses, each with a simple melody and lyrics that emphasize the Shaker values of humility, simplicity, and devotion to God. The first verse begins with the lines "Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free / 'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be." The second verse continues with the lines "And when we find ourselves in the place just right / 'Twill be in the valley of love and delight." The hymn's melody is characterized by its simplicity and repetition, with each verse consisting of a single melodic phrase that is repeated several times. The harmonies are also simple, with the melody often accompanied by a drone or a simple chord progression. The hymn's tempo is slow and deliberate, emphasizing the contemplative nature of the lyrics. "I Will Bow and Be Simple" has been arranged and performed by many artists over the years, including Aaron Copland, who used the melody in his ballet "Appalachian Spring." The hymn has also been featured in several films and television shows, including the opening credits of the popular HBO series "The Leftovers." Overall, "I Will Bow and Be Simple" is a beautiful and timeless hymn that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its message of simplicity, humility, and devotion to God is as relevant now as it was when it was first composed over two centuries ago.

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