The tradition of Christian hymnody has inspired countless authors and composers to write tunes and texts that “stick.” What follows is my attempt to allow these beloved traditions to shine, even at a time of pandemic and quarantine.
Let your instrument do the singing for you. Enjoy these arrangements in the Hymns that Sing series.
“Amazing Grace!” for solo piano
This short piece for solo piano combines the traditional melody with elements of Gospel, ultimately combining these ideas with a quotation from César Franck’s Ballade for piano.
“Be Thou My Vision” for solo organ
Simple and contemplative, this arrangement elicits the sounds of fifes, oboes, and strings in addition to a pedal drone in open fifths. It is accessible to organists of early intermediate to advanced ability.
“All Creatures of Our God and King” for solo organ
This exciting and virtuosic arrangement is accessible for intermediate to advanced organists and works well on most organs. The final pedal entry carries the hymn tune in long notes, in canon with a solo reed sound.