Lift Every Voice and Sing
J. Rosamond Johnson wrote the original tune (still under copyright) and Vicki L. Smith set it for 3,4, or 5 octaves of handbells. The meter is 6/8 with a "lively" tempo marking indicating a quick lilt. Martellatos and mart-lifts figure highly in passages of accompaniment adding to the upbeat nature of the work. An open feel pervades all 117 measures.