Of Dust and Eternal : David Michael Hyde

string orchestra and harp | 6′

Of Dust and Eternal is inspired by the Christmas hymn, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly. The hymn tune is based on a Polish 13th-century folk tune (entitled, W Żłobie Leży) and adds an ascending harmonic sequence in the third line that perfectly captures the rising hope of the Christmas season.

Written for string orchestra and optional harp, this arrangement adds original compositional sections based on tiny fragments of the hymn tune. Four-part independent writing interlaces these motifs to create a fabric of cannon and counterpoint that broadens the original tonal harmonies and textures. Beginning with a simple exposition of the hymn, this seasonal work builds and expands into a journey of wonder and anticipation. The piece closes with a crescendo and modulation into a reprise of the hymn – a glorious celebration of the miraculous Infant’s birth and His promise.

Video Recording:
Texas Music Education Association (TMEA) All-Region 24 String Orchestra – 2025
McKinney High School Performing Arts Center, McKinney, TX (USA)
Conducted by Heather Nieto

Co-premieres (2024):

Clear Lake High School Orchestra, Houston, TX (USA), conducted by Bryan Buffaloe
Cypress Creek High School Orchestra, Houston, TX (USA), conducted by Aaron Johnston
Dulles High School Orchestra, Sugar Land, TX (USA), conducted by Michael Isadore
L.D. Bell High School Orchestra, Hurst, TX (USA), conducted by Allison King
Northest Orchestra of Tarrant County, Hurst, TX (USA), conducted by Tom Connely
Strake Jesuit College Preparatory School Orchestra, Houston, TX (USA), conducted by Guillermo Hernandez-Ching
Seven Lakes High School Orchestra, Katy, TX (USA), conducted by Desiree Overree

Available for purchase on J.W.Pepper