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Simply Hymns: Piano Book

$8.99 USD
$8.99 USD
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Simply Hymns Cover Image
Simply Hymns: Piano Book

Simply Hymns: Piano Book

Arranged by Jerry Ray

Level: Early Intermediate

Item: 00-11720
$8.99
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Description
Jerry Ray has arranged 10 of the best-loved hymns in a fresh, contemporary style for early intermediate level pianists. Titles: Amazing Grace * Crown Him with Many Crowns * Fairest Lord Jesus * He Leadeth Me * Holy, Holy, Holy * My Jesus, I Love Thee * The Old Rugged Cross * Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us * Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus * What a Friend We Have in Jesus

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Additional Details
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 32
ISBN10: 0-7390-0993-1
ISBN13: 978-0-7390-0993-2
UPC: 038081029900
SKU: 00-11720

More about this title

Why we love this

Ray's arrangements strike a genuine balance between honoring the melodic integrity of these hymns and giving them modern harmonic and textural life. Early intermediate pianists get substantial musical content here—voicing choices that matter, right-hand figuration that engages without overwhelming, and left-hand patterns that build independence. These aren't simplified versions that feel thin; they're thoughtful recompositions that let students play real music from day one.

What to expect

Dignified and reflective, yet contemporary in spirit. These arrangements preserve the reverent character of the hymns while introducing fresh harmonic colors and modern pianistic textures that feel current without being trendy. Playing through the collection offers both spiritual grounding and genuine musical satisfaction.

Who it's for

Early intermediate pianists ready for hymn arrangements that reflect thoughtful compositional craft. Students who have solid note-reading skills and basic hand independence will find these pieces rewarding both technically and musically. Teachers seeking accessible yet substantive sacred repertoire for recitals, church services, or student concert programming.

How to get the most out of it

  • Observe the harmonic movement carefully. Contemporary arranging often shifts expected chord progressions; reading ahead prevents surprises and helps you understand Ray's reharmonization choices before you play them.
  • Let the accompaniment patterns establish a steady pulse early in practice. These arrangements rely on rhythmic consistency in the left hand to support the lyrical quality of the melody.
  • Shape phrases as if singing the hymn text. Even though you're playing piano, the vocal origins of these melodies should guide your phrasing and breath points.
  • Take time with dynamic contrasts. Ray's scoring offers opportunities for nuance; small shifts in volume between verses or sections deepen the musical storytelling.

How to use it

Ideal for church services, student recitals, or special events where sacred music fits the occasion. A single arrangement works as a prelude or offertory; longer programs could string several pieces together for a thematic concert. These also serve well in curricular contexts where students explore arranged versus original music, or sacred versus secular traditions.

Skills your students will build

  • Reading and executing contemporary harmonic language
  • Balancing melodic shape against accompaniment patterns
  • Developing left-hand independence and consistency
  • Interpreting dynamic and expressive markings in arranged music
  • Understanding reharmonization and its effect on familiar melodies

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