Ye Elders of Israel

Solo Piano Arrangement by Melinda Allred

Sometimes the story behind a hymn makes its message even more powerful.

When I began arranging Ye Elders of Israel for solo piano, I became fascinated by the life of its lyricist, Cyrus H. Wheelock. What I discovered gave me an entirely new appreciation for the words he wrote.

In 1856, years after writing this hymn, Wheelock answered Brigham Young’s call to help rescue the stranded handcart pioneers on the snowy plains of Wyoming. He didn’t simply write about faith, sacrifice, and answering the call to serve. He lived those principles, even when doing so required tremendous personal sacrifice.

That discovery became the inspiration behind both my arrangement and the accompanying music video.

I wanted the music to capture the determination, urgency, and unwavering faith of those who answered the call to rescue their fellow Saints. And through the video, I wanted to share the remarkable story of a man whose actions gave even greater meaning to the words of his hymn.

Cyrus H. Wheelock didn’t just write the words. He lived them.

I hope this arrangement and the story behind it will inspire you as much as they have inspired me.

Free sheet music is available below.