Early American Hymn Song is an exciting treatment of the classic hymn, "How Firm a Foundation." The opening Maestoso hints at the tune and ultimately leads to a complete statement of the original melody with a rhythmic snare drum accompaniment. The opening motif is developed into a full blown original Allegro section that includes some interesting contrapuntal treatments of the melodic material. A slower, more reflective section that features the ensemble in smaller instrumental groups leads us into a return of the original hymn song, this time fully harmonized with an upper woodwind descant and percussion embellishments.