I've Got Peace Like a River
Valerie Stephenson begins this setting by combining the unique singing bell technique on the lower bells with the melody on lower (optional) handchimes and wind chimes, and establishes an ethereal, serene mood. Each of the three verses is given a different treatment reflecting the theme of the text. Verse 1 (Peace) uses the singing bells; Verse 2 (Love) receives a full hymn statement, and Verse 3 (Joy) is malleted throughout in a quasi-boogie style. The ending returns to a modified repeat of Verse 1. This enchanting arrangement is suitable for any time of year and a mellifluous choice for festivals. Scored in F Major, it is 71 measures.