Resources for Christian musicians
“Take this hour; make me more like You.”
Mac Lynch
“There is a holy place, far from my rapid pace . . .”
This is a heart-touching, encouraging song. Truly, the composer speaks from his heart and encourages in a close walk with God.
The Wilds –
SATB link
Free congregational hymn link
We’re Singing by the Wilds (#54 in 7th edition)
“When life’s burdens get so heavy . . . “
At the moment, maybe that describes how you are feeling. Yes, you know God is in control, yet humanly speaking, you are feeling overwhelmed.
Or perhaps in reflecting on current events, you feel burdened about what is occurring in the world.
However, as the song continues, it emphasizes a focus upon Jesus. Then and only then “I find His grace sufficient.” Our perspective is truly vastly different when our eyes are directed to Christ! (“Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” I Pet. 5:7)
The second verse is what I would like to focus upon next.
“I will seek for souls in darkness . . .”
– it is a challenging quote!
– It is a challenging quote!
We are thick in the midst of missions’ conference season. Perhaps you are searching for a missions-based song.
As such, I could see this beneficial as a missions song.
This is one of those songs that touches my heart. It provides encouragement as well as prodding to be steadfast (I Cor. 15:58) I think you likewise will find this song beneficial in your life and ministry opportunities.
Joe Zichterman has also written other songs such as “A Passion for Thee” and “Be an Example.” Both of these likewise have phenomenal, godly messages.
Recording of lyrics and music. (for demonstration use only)
This is an excellent piano edition.
Same music as above, but with lyrics included. Link
We’re Singing by The Wilds (I have the 7th edition; I know it is also contained in several other editions.)
Hymn setting (The Wilds has graciously provided this.)
Recordings – it was also featured on recordings by The Wilds
Our God is great!
As believers, there is such a contrast between world events/ emotions and the peace and hope found in God.
We know we can trust our powerful God. He is in control.
The same God Who brought the Israelites to the Promised Land is the same God Who controls our life and world circumstances.
“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” is such an apropos piece at such as time as this.
Church orchestra:
Majestic organ:
(Incredible – he played entirely from memory)
Other video links: BJU & congregation link
Orchestral rendition link
Most hymnals contain this hymn.
“I am amazed . . . “
God blessed in an amazing way recently in seeing an individual commit their life to God.
Upon reflecting on the step this individual took, several songs came to mind.
One of them was the song “I Am Amazed” by A. H. Ackley.
The first lines go like this:
“I am amazed that God would ever love me
So full of sin, so covered o’er with shame –
Make me to walk, with Him Who is above me,
Cleansed by the power of His redeeming name.”
-A.H. Ackley
The following is an excellent piano rendition of the song:
Best of Favorites Songbook Vol. 1 (Song #71) Amazon AbeBooks Ebay (Ebay currently has the best price)
fyi – One Spanish translation is as follows:
Maravillado Estoy
Maravillado estoy que Dios me amara,
Tan pecador, cubierto de maldad;
Que me hiciera andar en su presencia,
Purificado por su santidad.
Maravillado estoy que Dios me amara,
Solo Jesus mi culpa borrara;
Por fe en Jesus obtengo vida eterna,
Por siempre morare con El en Sion.
“Someday the silver cord will break . . .”
For those familiar with this song, the above quote has just started a melodious tune in your head, complete with deeply meaningful lyrics.
For those less familiar, this hymn reflects on the temporary nature of our earthly presence and anticipates with joy the arrival to our heavenly home. It is truly a special song!
This has been a classic song/offertory for numerous years and is loved by many.
The following provides an idea of the piano arrangement:
(Another excellent recording of this arrangement – video link)
Example of congregational singing: Video Link
Excellent piano recording: Video Link and a cappella version Video Link
Arrangement – “Saved By Grace” in Cindy Berry’s arrangement book
Congregational hymn – Living Hymns (1st ed.) #691 (also excellently arranged for duet)
Great Hymns of the Faith #512
Bonus: While researching for this post, I ran across the following choral work: “We Are Saved by Grace.” I love the doctrine taught through this piece. Video Preview
The following feature some ideas that may fit the exact niche for those on your shopping list.
This would be great for piano students or even an adult getting back into playing the piano.
The arrangements are tried & true and a joy to play.
I particularly enjoy hearing the arrangements “Come Thou Fount” and “Shelter in the Time of Storm.” These are intermediate level.
Sheetmusicplus (they are currently having a great sale going on right now)
Lorenz website ~$16.95
I recently stumbled across this one and have liked what I’ve seen.
look inside
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Favorite Hymns Easy Piano Collection Composed by Various public domain. Arranged by Misha Stefanuk. Easy Piano Classics. Christian, Gospel, Spiritual, Sacred, General Worship. Individual Part, Piano Reduction, Sheet Music Single. 90 pages. Published by Misha Stefanuk (S0.172645). |
Sheetmusicplus – digital download (also on sale right now)
Excellent compilation of short songs with fun arrangement stylings. A favorite is “For the Beauty of the Earth.”
Good book for students.
SheetMusicPlus – book or download
Amazon website
If you enjoy instrumental (& particularly cello), this is the CD.
Beautiful, calming arrangements featuring cello and piano.
(About one to two songs are unfamiliar.)
Amazon CD MP3/digital
Heart Publications is having a sale currently. The following are some CDs I recommend.
Fantastic CD!
Just the title song is worth the cost of the CD!
Purchase CD (only $5! Wow)
Nice selection of various songs. Also includes several traditional hymns
The lyrics of “All of These” are top-notch!
CD sale price $5
Instrumental selection
More of a “southern” flavor or as their website says “Appalachian hymns”
A family member raves about this CD. (It apparently was the perfect gift for him!)
This contains instrumental and vocal selections.
Definitely recommend this CD if you enjoy Irish-style music.
CD $5 sale price
MP3/digital $5 sale price
Manhasset M48 is my go-to stand – reliable, durable, functional. Amazon link
This one is also a less-expensive, portable option.
A music stand is a handy thing to have in the home or place of ministry/business. It also makes a great gift.
For additional comparison of music stands, please visit this post.
Excellent collection of songs focusing on Jesus’ love toward us.
Physical CD $5
This CD contains a collection of songs dealing with Christ’s sacrifice and great grace to us.
CD
MP3/digital (currently $5, sale)
Hispanics love to sing! A hymnal is a treasured item in most Spanish homes!
The hymnal I have used is called Celebremos Su Gloria. It has many of the traditional hymns as well as a few excellent Spanish hymns. There are contemporary songs as well which we do not sing.
This hymnal comes in several formats. If you are specifically wishing for the music score, make sure the edition you order contains it.
Amazon website
EBI (I have ordered from this company in the past and been very pleased.)
Please visit this link for additional ideas for students, pianists, musicians, and music lovers.