Wondrous Praise, Book 1: Favorites from the 1980s: Piano Book

These arrangements capture the emotional core of 1980s contemporary Christian songs without oversimplifying them for the piano. Koerts gives each piece enough musical substance to engage pianists working at the early advanced level while keeping the beloved melodies front and center, making this collection rewarding both for recital performance and for church musicians who want to revisit songs that shaped worship in their congregations.

Opening these pages feels like stepping into a well-lit sanctuary where familiar melodies meet thoughtful harmonic support. The music carries warmth and sincerity without sentimentality, offering both reflective moments and moments of joyful affirmation. Each arrangement respects the song's spiritual purpose while giving the pianist a genuine musical vehicle for expression.

This collection suits pianists at the early advanced level who want to expand their contemporary Christian repertoire or who play regularly in worship settings. It is also ideal for pianists preparing recital programs that celebrate the musical legacy of 1980s church music, and for accompanists seeking well-crafted, singable arrangements for congregational worship or special events.

• Balance the hymn-like character of pieces such as "El Shaddai" and "How Majestic Is Your Name" by giving yourself permission to breathe between phrases, even when the written notation might suggest pushing forward.
• Pay attention to harmonic color in the accompaniment patterns; Koerts often uses block chords and arpeggios that benefit from slight tempo flexibility and dynamic shaping to prevent rhythmic stiffness.
• When multiple pieces share thematic material or similar moods, use contrasting tempos and touch to differentiate them during a program or practice session.
• Lean into the congregational warmth of these songs rather than treating them as pure concert repertoire; the authenticity of the message comes through clearer when you honor the worship context.

These songs work beautifully as a recital program on their own, grouped thematically by mood or message rather than chronologically. You might also extract individual pieces for special worship services, congregational meetings, or times when you want to feature piano music that speaks to your community's spiritual heritage. They also serve well as teaching pieces for advanced students who are beginning to explore arrangement and worship music contexts.

• Playing hymn-based and contemporary Christian melodies with appropriate phrasing and expression
• Managing arpeggiated and block chord accompaniment patterns with consistent tone and rhythm
• Reading and interpreting harmonic language rooted in contemporary Christian music of the 1980s
• Balancing melodic and accompaniment voices to maintain clarity in arrangements
• Connecting to worship and congregational music contexts as a pianist