Music in Sacred Spaces: Listening Report

The piece of music that I chose is a hymn titled “The Old Rugged Cross”, composed by evangelist, George Bennard in Michigan in 1912. Originally performed by Bennard himself, “The old Rugged Cross” became a staple in services pertaining to the Revival of Jesus Christ.

In the attached rendition, country music artist, Alan Jackson, performs this song vocally and with an acoustic guitar as well, accompanied by backup vocals, pianos, another guitarist and a cello. At 6/8 time, the ballad starts off soft until the first refrain. From this point, backup vocals come in high as Jackson becomes louder yet angelic. This repeats with each proceeding verse and refrain in strophic form. The hymn’s first verse begins with a dark undertone. Moving onto the chorus, Bennard shares his gratefulness for the cross and what it symbolizes. By contrast, in the next verse, Bennard shines a light on the perspective of a group of people who don’t see what he sees. Despite what others believe, Bennard reiterates his faith in Jesus Christ for his suffering in order to excuse Bennard for his sins and expresses his joy for being able to share Jesus’ story. With its soft approach and repetition, this hymn carries characteristics that resemble a pop-country style. Vocally driven, the instruments played take a back-seat in order to keep the focus on the narrative. In doing so, listeners will find it easier to follow along and paint a picture as the story is being told.

As a child, George Bennard had regularly attended assemblies held by the Salvation Army. As a passionate young adult, Bennard converted into a Minister when enlisting for the Salvation Army. Shortly after, he would begin to conduct revival meetings across the Midwest in hopes of encouraging active members to gain new converts. Bennard hadn’t begun composing hymns until his departure from the Salvation Army in 1910, where with his faith still intact, became an Evangelist for his own ministry. Working on hymns while conducting revival meetings across the Midwest, Bennard had finally finished “The Old Rugged Cross” and recited it among like-minded individuals where it became an instant hit. Broadcasted nationwide, Bennard eventually sold the rights to the hymn.

At the time of creation, Bennard had become vexed with some of the community involved with the revival meetings. The faction was divided amongst believers and non-believers. Knowing where he stood, Bennard drew a line in the sand, establishing his beliefs while also touching on the doubt of the other side of the community. In the end, Bennard again instills his viewpoint, prevailing uncertainty.

Raised as a Christian and an avid church goer, I’ve become familiar with this piece. I am often reminded of this work when my beliefs are under fire. This specific rendition appeals more to me as a fan of country music. Unlike some other genres, it’s very easy for Christian beliefs and country music to coexist which could have played a role in my fondness for the genre. I really enjoy the hymn because of the imagery it displays for me and the nostalgia associated with it.

References

1. Longden, T. (n.d.) George Bennard. Retrieved February 3, 2019 from https://data.desmoinesregister.com/famous-iowans/george-bennard
2. Wyse, E. (2015). The History Behind “The Old Rugged Cross”. Mature Living. Retrieved February 3, 2019, from https://www.lifeway.com/en/articles/the-history-behind-the-old-rugged-cross-hymn-george-bennard-revival
3. GaitherVEVO. (2017, August 24). Alan Jackson – The Old Rugged Cross (Live) [Video file]. Retrieved February 3, 2019, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JS9P8d2iOc