The word gospel
means “good news,” so it is no surprise that many songs of faith are
uplifting, rhythmic and exuberant. Such is the case with the fresh piano
settings of the 9 well-known gospel songs in this collection. These
country-style arrangements enable the pianist to offer upbeat music that
sets hands to clapping and feet tapping.
These
creative settings are best suited to the intermediate to advanced
player as a few of them feature syncopation, meter and key changes, and
the left-hand, alternating bass note/chord pattern popularized by
ragtime pianists. Suggested chords with all the right inversions and
harmonies are provided should a backup guitarist and bassist wish to
join you.
Many
moods—including commitment, assurance, devotion, dedication, praise,
thankfulness, adoration, peace, and inspiration—are expressed through
the medium of what is commonly referred to as southern gospel music. A
natural outgrowth of these heartfelt emotions is the joy that is so
evident in many of the tunes found in this collection, including: “Glory
to His Name”, “Come and Dine”, “The Lily of the Valley”, “At Calvary”,
and “Unclouded Day”— all songs with uplifting purpose, bright tempos and
catchy melodies that will engage musicians as much as their audiences.