Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me (Tune: Redhead No. 76 - 4vv) [with lyrics for congregations]

"Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me" was written by Augustus Toplady in 1776. There is a legend that he was inspired to write it after finding shelter from a thunderstorm in a cleft in a rock at Burrington Combe in Somerset, England in 1776.

The tune is 'Redhead No. 76', composed by Richard Redhead in 1853. The curious name comes from the fact thst it was number 76 in his influential 'Church Hymn Tunes, Ancient and Modern'.

It is performed here by the Guildford Cathedral Choir.

Video background by Rick Coyle from Pixabay.

[olayinkasanni]

I love your music as you observe crescendoes and diminuendoes! Simply Magnificent! Thanks!

[gerrywilliams]

This is the tune I emember from my childhood! Lovely to hear it again!

[natkretep]

Wonderful rendering of that last verse with the huge dynamic contrast with the loud 'When I soar to to realms unknown', and the quiet prayer at the end 'let me hide myself in thee'.

[saragrant]

One of my very favourites and meaningful. I visited it and the spot is something magic-like.

[paultoschi]

This melody is also known as "Petra" - Rock. Thank you for this beautiful rendition.

[dgujigq]

Last verse 3rd and 4 th line volume suddenly increase and