Following the successful Hymn Prelude Library series for organ, Concordia has released a new collection of piano preludes based on the hymn tunes found in Lutheran Service Book. This collection features newly composed pieces by dozens of composers who write in a variety of styles and harmonizations. The pieces are useful as preludes, postludes, music at the offering, for introductions, and during distribution, as well as for those who play hymns at home. The durable wire binding ensures that each page lies flat against the music stand. Piano Prelude Series vol 5 (preludes for tunes starting with the letters ‘H’ and ‘I’) includes my setting of {Herzlich lieb} (Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart).
All I Can Do Is Praise (Daniel Barta) added to the Shaw Music catalog
These five original songs by lyricist and composer Daniel Barta explore the grace and grandeur of God as experienced in the mundane and profound. With uniquely personal imagery, these beautifully tuneful pieces feature supportive, elegant piano accompaniment and will appeal to singers of all abilities. Appropriate for any moment of worship.
- Be Still
- No Condemnation
- All I Can Do Is Praise
- It’s Not Climbing Mountains
- Prince of Peace (optional duet)
Preview pages from the score and listen to a sample recording here.
Cello Music for Worship (Peter Hilliard) added to the Shaw Music catalog
While under quarantine in 2020, Peter Hilliard wrote ten hymn settings for cello and piano to be performed during filmed segments for virtual church services. In each expertly crafted arrangement, these beloved hymns are treated with reverence and invention, ranging from triumphant virtuosity to quiet contemplation. With titles spanning the church year, this collection provides preludes, postludes, and offertories for all seasons.
- A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
- All Creatures of Our God and King
- And Can It Be That I Should Gain?
- Christ the Lord Is Risen Today
- Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross
- Jesus Paid It All
- O Sacred Head, Now Wounded
- Rejoice, the Lord Is King
- Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling
- What Child Is This
Preview pages from the score and listen to sample recordings here.
Beneath the Cross: Suite for Piano (Olivia Cresswell) added to the Shaw Music catalog
Olivia Cresswell has written a beautifully expressive suite on hymns of the cross, useful for many occasions throughout the church year. Church pianists and private teachers will find this a meaningful addition to their repertoire. Movements include:
- Look, Ye Saints! The Sight Is Glorious
- Beneath the Cross of Jesus
- Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross
Preview pages from the score and listen to a sample recording here.
Three Hymn Preludes for Lent (Jeremy Zimmer) added to the Shaw Music catalog
Jeremy Zimmer’s second set of hymn preludes for organ is a collection of three Lenten hymns centered on the “Lamb of God.” Useful in worship services during Lent and Holy Week.
- A Lamb Goes Uncomplaining Forth
- Not All the Blood of Beasts
- Lamb of God, Pure and Holy
Preview pages from the score and listen to sample recordings here.
Do Not I Love Thee, O My Lord? published by Augsburg Fortress
Augsburg Fortress has published my anthem, “Do Not I Love Thee, O My Lord?” (SATB, a cappella). This is a sensitive, expressive anthem based on the sturdy early American tune DETROIT, perfectly capturing the deeply personal text that seeks to grow in the love for God. The piece also received an Editors’ Choice designation from JW Pepper.
Publishing (Augsburg Fortress) update 2.11.2020
Augsburg Fortress will publish my original choral setting of “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” (Unison or 2-part, keyboard, violin) as part of their Fall 2021 release. “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” is an anonymous text full of vivid imagery. This original choral setting achieves timbral variety using minimal forces. The anthem is appropriate during Advent and Lent, as well as throughout the year.
Publishing (MorningStar) update 12.7.18
MorningStar Music
will publish my newest Communion anthem, “Lord Jesus Christ, Life-Giving Bread,” on a poignant text by seventeenth-century pastor Johann Rist. Elegant vocal lines that remain within narrow ranges combine with a simple, supportive accompaniment to make this an excellent choice for choirs of any size. This is scheduled to be published as part of MorningStar’s Spring 2020 release.
Going over Jordan (Olivia Cresswell) added to the Shaw Music catalog
Olivia Cresswell’s beautiful collection, Going over Jordan: Songs of Heaven for Piano, contains six hymns and spirituals arranged at a moderate level. From introspective passages to joyful bursts of praise, there is something for everyone here. Preview a sample from the score here.
Publishing (Augsburg Fortress) update 6.27.18
Augsburg Fortress will publish my SATB a cappella setting of the Sacred Harp hymn “Do Not I Love Thee?” as part of their Fall 2020 release. This setting of Philip Doddridge’s hymn, paired with the Sacred Harp tune “Detroit,” is haunting and particularly effective during Lent.
