Were You There?

About this song:

Were You There? is a new setting of the classic African-American spiritual. The text focuses on Mary's experience as Jesus' mother, from her pregnancy to the empty tomb. This arrangement was written for guitar in E major, but also includes the Eb version that is more common in hymnals, so this new text can also be used with traditional keyboard accompaniment. Additionally, the last verse is arranged for an optional SATB choir.

Please note: this is a download of Were You There? by itself, but it is also included as part of the Holy Mother, Holy Child -- Lenten Vespers service.

Download includes:

• Lead sheet (.pdf with vocal melody, chords, performance notes for guitar, and optional SATB choir)
• Bulletin inserts in E and Eb (.tiff)
• Permission to print and duplicate music for the purpose of worship
• Permission to perform music (including livestreaming) for the purpose of worship

Sample recording: Luther Seminary Chapel

Sample recording: Lenten Vespers (studio version -- differs slightly from the sheet music)