The song's popularity is no doubt due to the Jewish-style music by Stuart Dauermann (b. Brooklyn, NY, 1944). Both text and tune were written for the Liberated Wailing Wall, the touring singing group of Jews for Jesus. It was first published in Scriptures to Sing (Lillenas, 1975). The infectious tune with its syncopations and hand clapping makes it a winner among contemporary Scripture choruses. Sing "The Trees of the Field" in unison at a good tempo on a half-note pulse. Use stringed instruments (guitars, violins), tambourines, hand clapping, and even some foot stomping! It may well be sung more than once, perhaps the second time (or with the additional stanza above) at a slightly faster tempo.
Dauermann was a senior staff missionary and music director of Jews for Jesus from 1973-1989; he also directed the Liberated Wailing Wall for five years. Educated in music theory (BA) and music education (M.M.) at the Manhattan School of Music, he also completed a master's degree in missiology at Fuller Theological Seminary in 1992. His songs appear on ten different record albums and have been published in various songbooks by Lillenas Publishing and Jews for Jesus. Dauermann currently serves on the staff of the A Havat Zion Messianic Synagogue, Beverly Hills, California.
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook
