It Is Well: Piano Book

Vandall's arrangements elevate familiar hymns without losing their essence; each one respects the tune while adding harmonic sophistication and pianistic interest that keeps advanced students engaged. The inclusion of performance times makes programming these pieces straightforward, and the Federation Festivals selection validates their quality for recital and competition use.

These arrangements feel reverent yet alive. Familiar melodies emerge from fuller harmonies and more expressive accompaniment patterns, creating a sense of discovery within pieces many pianists thought they already knew. There's warmth and dignity throughout, combined with the intellectual satisfaction of Vandall's sophisticated harmonic choices.

Advanced pianists who want substantive repertoire grounded in spiritual music, whether for recital programs, festival competitions, or personal enrichment. This collection serves pianists comfortable with complex harmonic language and those seeking meaningful sacred literature beyond simplified hymnal arrangements.

• Balance the melody against richer harmonic textures by listening to the fuller sound of each arrangement rather than forcing a single voice to dominate.
• Study the harmonic language in advance since Vandall's voicings often depart from predictable chord progressions; this preparation shapes how you voice the accompaniment.
• Respect the architectural pacing of each piece; use the marked performance times as targets, not absolutes, and allow the harmonic movement to breathe naturally.
• Practice sections where both hands carry significant musical material independently, treating them as separate voices rather than accompanying a single melody.

Build a recital around hymn themes by pairing selections from this collection with secular pieces in complementary keys or moods, using the varied performance times to shape your program flow. These arrangements also work well in interfaith community events or church services where a skilled pianist can offer musical leadership rather than simple accompaniment.

• Navigating complex harmonic progressions and unexpected chord movements
• Balancing independent melodic and harmonic lines in both hands
• Bringing out inner voices while maintaining clarity in the overall texture
• Interpreting and shaping longer phrases in sacred music with appropriate pacing and expression
• Connecting familiar melodies to fresh harmonic contexts