Southern Gospel Piano Joyful Gospel

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.

These outstanding country style solo piano arrangements of gospel favorites provide a wonderful resource for any worship situation. Contents include: "Alleluia! Sing to Jesus", "Abide with Me", "Blessed Assurance", "The Church's One Foundation", "The Haven of Rest", "Never Alone", "Close to Thee", "The Solid Rock", and "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross". These "Songs of Faith" are sure to inspire, encourage and strengthen both the performer and listener alike. Includes access to online audio.

This collection consists of nine engaging piano arrangements of well and lesser-known gospel tunes in an arranging style reminiscent of Floyd Cramer. Pianistic ornaments and flair have been added without obscuring the original melodies. These selections are appropriate for church services, recital programs, informal gatherings, or simply as expressions of personal devotion. Suggested chords have been added to facilitate accompaniment by a partial or complete rhythm section.

We all have experienced devotion at varying levels of intensity within our lives. Sometimes it is temporary, but in other cases it is lasting and perhaps even permanent. Devotion can be directed toward an idea, a purpose, plan, pet or person, a concept, a sport or hobby, a philosophy, or a feeling or relationship, but we all have known it in some measure. It can be so pathetically shallow as devotion to an object or possession, but its highest expression is found in devotion to the most noble of lasting and eternal values and in pursuit of knowing the awesome Creator of the universe- - - God himself. Hopefully, these piano pieces will inspire a greater measure of devotion from each of us.

All of us can probably be rightfully described as being too unappreciative and too quick to complain. Few individuals have been criticized for being overly thankful. This book is presented to help generate a focus on giving thanks for and being aware of our innumerable blessings provided by our Creator. May these wonderful gospel songs and great hymns arranged in the popular Southern Gospel style be an encouragement to everyone.

There’s nothing like a good ole gospel tune to lift your spirits, give you hope, and help you through the hard times. Gospel favorites such as Just a Little Talk with Jesus, How Big Is God, In the Garden, and many more are the inspiration behind these 75 soul-stirring devotions and prayers. Each devotion is accompanied by an interesting tidbit about the song, its composer, and the song’s importance to the world of Southern Gospel music.