Claude T. Smith is well known for taking hymn tunes and creating thrilling arrangements. God of Our Fathers, our National Hymn, opens with an ominous trumpet and trombone trio introduction, followed by a flute solo, and piccolo/bassoon duet in the Maestoso section. Variations on the theme are introduced in the fugue section with the hymn theme introduced in the triumphant ending. The audience/congregation may sing the hymn tune, enhancing the work for audience and performers.
