Based on the traditional African-American spiritual most commonly known as “Over My Head,” “Music in the Air” was adapted and arranged by Ryan Murphy, associate music director of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square (formerly known as the Mormon Tabernacle Choir). The text of the traditional spiritual reflects the profound hope of African-American slaves in the midst of dire circumstances. Despite being alone, afraid, weary, and in darkness, these individuals were able to find hope in the music they heard in the air. This hope was not in themselves, but over their heads. Thus, they sang themselves into belief, as they were assured that “there must be a God somewhere.” The African-American experience of singing spirituals serves as a declaration that hope is not in this world, but in an unshakeable, eternal God who will deliver His children.
Murphy’s arrangement of “Music in the Air” accentuates the ethereal nature of the text, as the opening piano accompaniment sounds as if it is coming from the air. The accompaniment provides the piece with forward momentum, pushing us towards a hopeful future, while the homophonic texture of the voice parts serves as a unified declaration of God’s faithfulness. The momentum continues through a recognition of the loneliness, fear, darkness, and weariness we may experience, but a final key change and a glorious ending assures us that hope has the final word.
Notes by Adam Cogliano