A Cord of Three Strands

A majestic, celebratory piece written for trumpet, french horn, and trombone. It begins with original material and transitions into an arrangement of the classic hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness”. This piece would be appropriate for a recital or religious service.

Brass Trio | Grade 2 | 4:00

Performance materials available through:

For Scott and Deb Campbell on their 40th Wedding Anniversary
Given by their children in celebration of God’s faithfulness

“A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” -Ecclesiastes 4:12

A cord of three strands is used to represent the increased strength of marriage when God is present also. Our parents’ shared faith in Christ serves as the foundation of their marriage, and we are so grateful for the ways we see that in their lives. In all things, faith and music have been the foundation of our family, and making music together has always been our joy. Soli Deo gloria!

Love,

Andy, Katie, and Emily

About the music – from the composer

A Cord of Three Strands is a brass trio for trumpet (with flugelhorn), French horn, and trombone. It begins with original material and transitions into an arrangement of the classic hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness”.

I gravitated toward the Ecclesiastes reference early in the composition process, which helped give shape to the first half of the piece. It opens with a simple chorale—a series of “chords of three notes”—which suggests the hymn tune but stops short, serving instead as an introduction for the new material. The first original theme is more polyphonic—three independent lines interweaving to create a strong, cohesive whole. I orchestrated the second theme in pairs: first horn and trombone, followed by trumpet and trombone. Aside from the practical consideration of allowing the high brass to rest, I chose this configuration to represent each spouse’s own relationship with God, which they must pursue individually for the three-strand cord to reach its full potential. Subsequently, the chorale introduction recurs, this time launching into the hymn tune verbatim. An extended ending rises to a majestic final chord: a close-voiced major triad in root position.

For the inspiration for this music, and for any joy that it may bring to its performers and audiences, I give all glory to God.

A Cord of Three Strands premiered privately in June 2024.