It was was inspired by the dangers of the sea described in Psalm 107, and based on a poet which Whiting wrote to encourage a pupil who was about to undertake a long sea-journey ( ref ). In honor of JFK’s service in the Navy, this setting uses the original William Whiting text. Eternal Father Strong to Save (The Navy Hymn) This hymn of petition for safety at sea was written by English choral master and poet, William Whiting (1825-1878). The setting as a whole has a rather poignant tinge to it, echoing the grief of a nation that lost its beloved 35th President. (They sing the first verse only.) Clicking this will shut off the music on this page and bring up a media player. Midshipman Miles continued with his Navy career and reached the rank of Captain. We also have the Navy Hymn Prayer in WAVE FILE. The strings then introduce new material based on the opening melodic motive of the hymn, ushering the listener into the new arrangement. He molded the Great Lakes Navy Band into an accomplished musical organization and became the first Navy musician to hold the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
This new setting (premiered at the Kennedy Center, less than 3 miles from the Capital steps) begins with brass playing strains of the ending of The Navy Hymn, as if it were still echoing across the town, and in our memories. In researching the funeral music, we found that the Navy Band played The Navy Hymn (Eternal Father Strong To Save) as JFK’s casket was carried up the steps of the Capitol Rotunda, in honor of his heroic service in the US Navy in World War II. The hymn asks for blessing, safekeeping, and peace for all those at sea, at work and in service. Kennedy, we decided to look for a piece that was performed at President Kennedy’s funeral. The Duke of Edinburgh’s active naval career ended as a commander in 1953, but a life-long relationship remained, as well as a deep connection to the Royal Navy’s hymn. When I was commissioned to write a piece for chorus and orchestra for the National President’s Day Choral Festival (in Washington, DC) honoring John F. Orchestration is 2.2.2.2, 4.2.2.1, Percussion, Timpani, Harp, Strings. (Video above is dress rehearsal for the premiere). Commissioned for the 50th anniversary of JFK’s assassination, the piece was premiered on a President’s Day concert at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
A poignant, dramatic new setting of The Navy Hymn, suitable for both patriotic celebrations and worship services.
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