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Digital sheet music

Softly and Tenderly

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Recording: SATB

SATB · Medium Choir (up to 30 singers)$22.95

About this song

  • Available forSATB
  • MusicWill Thompson
  • WordsWill Thompson
  • ArrangementLane Johnson
  • AccompanimentPiano and Violin
  • LevelIntermediate
  • Duration~4:00

Softly and Tenderly is one of those hymns that never loses its power. Written by Will Lamartine Thompson in the 19th century, its gentle plea — come home — has moved congregations to reflection and response for generations.

In this new setting for SATB, piano, and violin, I wanted to honor that quiet earnestness. The violin adds a warm, singing melody above the choir while the piano provides a steady, peaceful foundation beneath it — together creating an atmosphere that is prayerful without being heavy.

The piece is designed to be accessible for most church choirs while still offering a genuinely moving experience for singers and congregation alike. It’s a natural fit for any service where the invitation to come to Christ is at the heart — baptisms, missionary farewells, sacrament or communion services, funerals, or simply a Sunday when grace needs to be the message.

Lyrics
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling— Calling for you and for me. Patiently Jesus is waiting and watching— Watching for you and for me! Come home! Come home! Ye who are weary, come home! Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling— Calling, O sinner, come home! Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading— Pleading for you and for me? Why should we linger and heed not His mercies— Mercies for you and for me? [Chorus] Oh, for the wonderful love He has promised— Promised for you and for me! Though we have sinned, He has mercy and pardon— Pardon for you and for me! [Chorus]
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Choose the voicing and license that match your ensemble. If you are unsure, contact Lane before ordering.