The dearth of tasteful musical literature, suitable for use in sacred services and created specifically for trumpet, prompted Paul Willwerth to compose or arrange these works as part of a research professorship granted him by Central Michigan University.
Compositional foundations were selected from hundreds of sources perused in a variety of libraries including the Library of Congress, the Music Research Division of the New York Public Library, university and schools of music libraries, etc. Those selections, chosen primarily for their musical potential and/or their adaptability for trumpet and organ, had to possess respective texts that can be viewed as being ecumenical in nature, thus making the final products suitable to many religious settings.
Although it was determined that these compositions must not be trite, it was also desired that they bring an immediate appreciation, convey much of the essence of their origins, and contribute in a worthy manner to the act of worship. Those noted with an asterisk (*) could be considered for use in recital situations as well. While the works require utmost musical sensitivity and control, their technical demands are not virtuosic. Publications include Bb and C trumpet parts.