Artistic and sensitive, Hanson's arrangement of the Appalachian folk hymn WONDROUS LOVE opens pensively but blossoms into a strong choral presentation mirroring the text. Gorgeous harmonies in the choral lines have both traditional and modern elements, while the piano accompaniment employs open fifths and flowing lines to create a growing texture of beauty and expression. A brief a cappella section and the stirring interludes are highlights, making this setting very special.