A 21st century Anthology

Title: Strength and Tenderness

Author: Doug Constable

Publisher: Llyfrau Cambria Books

ISBN: 978-1-068568855

Price: £16

Doug Constable is a retired Anglican priest living in Carmarthenshire. He is also an accomplished musician and this is his second collection of self-penned hymns, songs and poems.

There are four sections in all. The first is an homage to his noted predecessor George Herbert, specifically to his much-loved sonnet Prayer(I). Constable’s response comes in the form of 27 linked sonnets, each of which reflects on a line or phrase from Herbert’s original.

Of more practical use, perhaps, are the following sections that contain a variety of hymns and songs, piano and choral pieces.

Many of them are Constable originals whilst others are a combination of extant words set to new music, or vice versa.

The hymns vary in style. Some are simple and singable, others more complex. Some are congregational, some probably better suited to choral interpretation. Either way, Constable’s tunes are included in sheet-music form for would-be users. What’s more, there is also an electronic version of the book, where MP3 recordings are also available for download. And, provided you (or your church) have the right licensing affiliations, you are positively encouraged to use them, whether for worship or recital – both options are available here.

The poems, too, are meant to be heard, not just read. Every item in this collection has a purpose, explained frequently in footnotes that provide useful context. The inspiration comes from many directions – a person, a season, a place or a passage from Scripture. And whichever it is, celebration through performance is key.

Whether at home, in church or in concert, if you have ever tired of singing the same well-worn hymns year after year, this volume may just prove to be a welcome opportunity to try something different and new.

David Hammond-Williams