About Tim Hicks The Musician

My musical journey began at the age of 7, thanks to the inspiration and guidance of my first piano teacher and choir leader, Maggie Taylor. Under her tutelage for less than four years, I had the privilege of singing parts of Messiah and anthems by various composers. While my piano skills didn’t flourish as hoped, my passion for music found a new avenue when I took up the trombone at 13.

Choral singing became a significant part of my life. From the age of 12, I had the honour of singing in my school choir, performing once a month in the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral. I pursued music academically, earning an A-level in the subject before studying at Durham University. Later, at Gipsy Hill teacher training college, I experienced the thrill of hearing an orchestra play my arrangements, which reinforced my passion for arranging over composing.

Years later, I began writing new music, inspired by the hymns and poems of Timothy Dudley-Smith, who graciously allowed me to set his words to music. Over the years, I have arranged and composed music for schools, small orchestras, and church bands, contributing to the worship at Reigate Parish Church, St Mary’s Church in Woodnesborough, and St George’s Church in Deal.

The music I’ve written is under my copyright, but I encourage its use in worship settings, provided the original copyright for Timothy Dudley-Smith’s words, managed by OUP, is acknowledged. For concert use or other permissions, please contact music.permissions.uk@oup.com.

Timothy Dudley-Smith OBE

Timothy Dudley-Smith OBE (1926–2024) was a revered Church of England bishop and hymnwriter, best known for penning over 400 hymns, including the iconic “Tell Out, My Soul.” Born in Manchester, he developed a love for poetry early on, inspired by his father. After studying theology at Cambridge, he was ordained in 1950.

Timothy served in various roles, including curate, editor for the Evangelical Alliance, and general secretary of the Church Pastoral Aid Society, where he began writing hymns. His work became a cornerstone of the post-war British “hymn explosion,” with collections like Youth Praise and Psalm Praise.

He served as Archdeacon of Norwich (1973–1981) and Bishop of Thetford (1981–1991) and held leadership roles in education and evangelical organizations. Married to June MacDonald, he had three children. Timothy’s hymns remain a lasting contribution to Christian worship, inspiring generations worldwide.