Hymn Desk
Hymn Tunes /

DUNDEE

DUNDEE, also known as WINDSOR in some English psalter traditions, first appeared in the Scottish Psalter of 1615, published in Edinburgh under the oversight of the Church of Scotland. This psalter represented a significant consolidation of Reformed psalmody in Scotland, drawing on earlier psalter traditions including the Anglo-Genevan psalters of the 1550s and the English psalters of Sternhold and Hopkins. The tune's origins are somewhat obscure, as it was common practice in the period to adapt [Liturgical Use] This fine hymn on divine providence is useful on many occasions of worship. DUNDEE first appeared in the 1615 edition of the Scottish Psalter published in Edinburgh by Andro Hart. Called a “French” tune (thus it also goes by the name of FRENCH), DUNDEE was one of that hymnal’s twelve “common tunes”; that is, it was not associated with a specific psalm. In the Psalter Hymnal the tune is in isorhythmic form (all equal rhythms) and has a harmonization that was published in Thomas Ravenscroft’s Whole Booke ofPsalmes (1621). The tune’s name comes from the city of Dundee, known as the “Scottish Geneva” during the era of the Scottish Reformation. DUNDEE fits the meditative character of the text; its smooth lines invite part singing.

Stanza Arc

The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From human vulnerability and seeking aid (Law) to divine vigilance and protection (Gospel); movement from question to assurance

Associated Hymn Texts (25)