Comments by Captain Leonard Ballantine
The melody Shenandoah is one of those exquisite folk expressions which begs to be treated simply. Its sheer beauty of line and character makes it the perfect choice for marriage to the sensitive lyric of John Oxenham's masterful 'Mid all the traffic of the ways. In preparation, it is hoped that leaders will consult the song for personal insight, and in turn, share the timeless images with the musicians. Balance, blend, tuning and careful observance of dynamic will help achieve the desired serenity.

Programme Note

In this setting, the insightful words of John Oxenham's 'Mid all the traffic of the ways' are married to the beautiful American folk melody 'Shenandoah'. It is hoped that the restful serenity of the music will enhance the listener's personal shrine of quietness, thereby yielding a place of mystic grace where God's healing and wholeness can be experienced.