Emily R. Brink composed HEIDELBERG 54 in 1977. The tune has chantlike features at its beginning but develops larger melodic gestures toward the end. Because of its use of several melodic motives, the tune is accessible to many congregations. Either for initial learning or for regular use, try having the choir sing much of this setting in harmony, but have the congregation join in singing the personal final line (at the double bar).The long lines of this text demand careful choral leadership. Try also to sing this hymn unaccompanied or have those making profession of faith sing with just guitar as accompaniment.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook