Wondrous Praise, Book 3: Favorites from the Early 2000s: Piano Book

These arrangements distill beloved early 2000s praise songs into pianistically idiomatic writing that balances accessibility with genuine musical depth. Koerts understands both what makes these melodies singable in a congregational setting and what gives them life under a soloist's hands, creating pieces that work equally well as worship accompaniments or recital selections.

These pieces radiate sincerity and accessibility while maintaining musical craft. The writing sits comfortably under the hands without feeling simplified; you'll encounter engaging harmonic movement, thoughtful counterpoint, and moments of genuine intimacy alongside passages designed to fill a sanctuary with sound.

Pianists at the early advanced level who minister in church settings or want to develop a strong repertoire of contemporary sacred music for recitals and worship services. This collection appeals to students who connect spiritually with the material and benefit from playing arrangements rooted in genuine congregational use rather than purely secular contexts.

• Honor the lyrical intent of each melody. These songs carry theological weight; your phrasing should reflect the sincerity of their texts even when you're playing without singers.
• Attend to the harmonic colors Koerts uses to support familiar tunes. His voicings often add subtle sophistication; resist the urge to oversimplify or rush through quiet passages.
• Balance hands carefully in passages where the melody sits in the middle register. The arrangements often layer textural details that shouldn't disappear beneath a dominating right hand.
• Use the pedal judiciously to extend harmonic resonance without blurring the clarity of the piano's natural decay. These songs deserve clarity alongside warmth.

Feature individual selections as offertory or prelude music in worship settings, or build a recital around a thematic program pairing these contemporary pieces with classical hymn arrangements or other sacred repertoire. The collection's breadth allows you to select pieces that complement a specific liturgical season or congregational need.

• Playing contemporary harmonic language with jazz-influenced voicings and chromatic movement
• Balancing melody and accompaniment in mid-register textures
• Pedal control for sustain and clarity in modern sacred contexts
• Interpretive choices that honor both congregational singing and solo recital performance
• Ensemble sensitivity through accompaniment-based arrangements rooted in vocal literature