Aaron Williams (1731-1776) was a church musician and music teacher who also worked as a music engraver, which gave him ready access to publication of his works. He was a member of the Scottish Church (which, being the more conservative branch of Calvinism, meant psalm-singing), and was involved in the publication of several collections of psalm-tunes. (Brown,447) (One of these tunes, "Rockingham," later became quite prominent as the tune for "When I survey the wondrous cross" in the British tradition.) Williams's musical style is naturally steeped in the old psalm-tune tradition dating back to the 16th century, and his sturdy, singable tunes are evidently inspired by this background. This anthem is unaccompanied, as was the custom in the Scottish Church at this time.

Reference David's Hymn Blog. (Edited)

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