The First Hymn — Music Rooted in the Early Church

How Dr. Payne contributed to The First Hymn

My involvement in The First Hymn project was unexpected. I was making preparations to retire from Wheaton College after 41 years, and the opportunity to compose for The First Hymn dropped into my lap. Little did I know what a global phenomenon The First Hymn Project would be. I learned that the film makers and producer John Dickson wanted a uniquely acoustical setting, based on the contemporary song the Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding composed together. Their song was based almost entirely on the original 2nd century text found in the archeological dig in 1918. Out of thousands of papyrus fragments, this one showed what was clearly a Greek text with musical notation. You can learn more about The First Hymn on John Dickson’s Undeceptions podcast (https://undeceptions.com/thefirsthymnproject/). The Tomlin/Fielding song also reflected aspects of the ancient hymn chant that you can experience here: https://youtu.be/etFb7qhZ-qQ?si=VD9-ZFViDhbOOZ_2. I want to express my thanks to John Dickson, Mark Hadley and Maia Hadley for allowing me the privilege of working on this film project.



So with the goal of an acoustical version of the Tomlin/Fielding song, I set to work writing for SATB choir, strings and piano. I hope your choir comes to love this hymn setting as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to contact me with your questions at tp@tonypaynemusic.com.



For more information about The First Hymn, visit https://www.thefirsthymnmovie.com/ and make plans to see the documentary as soon as it’s available in your area. Everyone I know who has seen the film come away truly inspired!