Intense spirituality of African American gospel music like PRECIOUS LORD thrives in musical improvisation and flexibility in performance; this is especially true when it is performed by a soloist or a trained choir. When led by improvisation at the keyboard, sing this hymn in unison. Otherwise the congregation may well sing in harmony, even unaccompanied, in the tradition of African American spirituals. Traditional gospel accompaniment consists of piano, or piano and organ together, often with drums and guitars; all these instruments would assist in coloring the harmonization with additional chords, rhythmic figures, and melodic ornaments.

Dorsey slightly adapted the tune MAITLAND, composed by George Nelson Allan (b. Mansfield, OH, 1812; d. Cincinnati, OH, 1877), which was first published in his 1844 collection of hymn texts and tunes, The Oberlin Social and Sabbath School Hymn Book. Nearly all of Allen's adult life was associated with Oberlin College. After his graduation from Oberlin in 1837, he became a faculty member, teaching music and geology. His most lasting contribution was the introduction of choral and instrumental programs, which later developed into the Oberlin Conservatory of Music.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook