HARK WHAT A SOUND, AND TOO DIVINE

There is a profound sense of awe that comes with singing "Hark What a Sound, and Too Divine." The text, originally penned by Frederic W.H. Myers, captures the breathtaking anticipation of the Lord's coming. It asks the listener to pause and listen to a sound that "stirs on the earth and trembles in the air"—wondering if it is the thunder of God's arrival or the collective music of His people's prayers.

Set here to a stately melody from the French-Genevan Psalter (arranged by Kenneth Elliott), the piece carries a quiet majesty that builds with each verse. Choirs often turn to this hymn during seasons of waiting and expectation, particularly Advent, as it speaks directly to the promise that "Surely He cometh." The final verse brings a deep, personal comfort, reminding the faithful that through life, death, sorrow, and sin, Christ remains the beginning and the end.

Singing this arrangement in solfa notation brings out the rich, grounded harmonies of the Genevan Psalter tradition. It is a piece that invites the congregation into a space of reverence, urging everyone to cast the burden of their cares at His feet and rejoice in His promised return.