Isora HEckel comparison of "Amazing Grace"

Comparison of “Amazing Grace”
The first arrangement of “Amazing Grace” is for 2 parts, and piano accompaniment. The piece is arranged by Benjamin Harlan. I heard this piece performed by a women’s ensemble. The alto section sings the first verse with just open fifth chords as an accompaniment. There is a modulation and the sopranos sing the second verse with an increase in piano accompaniment. There is another modulation with the altos singing the third verse. The accompaniment for this part is contrary motion moving lines. Another modulation leads into the fourth verse with both sections singing the verse and chords are in the accompaniment. About half way through the verse is yet another modulation and amen. The alternating sections and accompaniment add texture and dynamics to the piece.
The second arrangement of “Amazing Grace” is a combination of two spirituals, entitled “The Gospel of Grace” with “Amazing Grace” and “I’m New Born Again” arranged by Mark Hayes. This is sung by a male soloist and piano accompaniment from a CD. Mark Hayes is known for combining spirituals into toe tapping and handclapping arrangements. This piece has a very challenging accompaniment and only one modulation for the final section of the song. There is rhythm and tempo changes in this piece as well.
The last arrangement of “Amazing Grace” is performed by Gary Karr, on You Tube. This arrangement starts with violin for verse one. The second verse has cello and organ. The third verse is just organ. The bass is playing the last verse with a faint organ accompaniment.
When looking for an internet arrangement, a fact that I noticed was that “Amazing Grace is performed at many funerals. The last arrangement could easily be heard at a funeral. The second arrangement, because of the combination of spirituals has a much lighter mood. The first arrangement could be used at many different kinds of settings or concerts.