Despair Not, O Heart

Music: Luther, Martin (1483-1546) · Words: Prudentius, Aurelius Clemens (348-413) · Press play and watch the score light up — solo any part, slow it down, loop the hard bits. Free.

2 parts on separate tracksSlow-down 50–90%, pitch trueA-B loopPublic domain

Opens the practice studio: score follows the sound, every part on its own track.

Lyrics

1. Despair not, O heart, in thy sorrow, But hope from God's promises borrow Beware in thy sorrow, of sinning For death is of life the beginning.

2. The body is shrouded in mourning; The garlands, the casket adorning, Are emblems of hope that betoken, O Death, that thy power is broken.

3. A dearly belov'd one hath left us; God hath in His Wisdom bereft us; But He will not leave us forsaken,We know that the dead shall awaken.

4. When dawneth the glorious morrow, This body that we view with sorrow, A glorified form shall be given, Restored to its spirit in heaven.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this free?
Yes — playback, part solo/mute, tempo control and looping are all free, right in the browser. The score and audio are generated from a public domain edition (Open Hymnal Project).
Can I do this with my own sheet music?
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Is this arrangement public domain?
Yes. Words, music and this edition are public domain, from the Open Hymnal Project. You may sing, perform and share it freely.