SKU: HL.48024090

ISBN 9781495097522. UPC: 888680694739. 6.75x10.5 inches.

Here are five “hymns” to the spirit of life. Calling on “modern” poetry, and certainly using the modern harmonic language that Mechem is so well known for, each movement is an answer to the previous movements questions. Each of the five movements can stand alone in a concert but together they create a celebration of life in all its diversity.

SKU: ST.B934

ISBN 9780852499344.

This, the ninth of a series of books begun in 1983, contains Brian Wren's 36 most recent hymns (2009 to 2012). It is nicely presented and laid out in a user-friendly way. The hymns are divided into five thematic sections: Jesus from Cradle to Cross; Easter Hymns; Church and Mission; Praise; and Metrical Psalms. This last section, rooted in (though not bound by) the Old Testament, is often influenced by Isaac Watts and will be of more use to some than others; it concludes with a tremendous rendering of Psalm 8; a paean of praise which all will love, set to a stirring tune.

Each section is prefaced with a single page introduction listing the contents and, in some instances, giving an interesting insight into Brian Wren's theology and thinking which provides food for contemplation. Each hymn is printed in words format with all the necessary information for inclusion in an order of worship. Every hymn is also printed with full score music for accompaniment interlined with the words. The book is slightly larger than A5, and there are various useful indexes.

The tunes range from ancient to modern, some very familiar, including Candler (better known as Ye Banks and Braes). A number are of a metre where alternative tunes are available. Those tunes which are new vary in ease of use; some will be readily picked up, others would prove challenging for occasional use in a small congregation but could be used as music group items.

These are hymns which need to be read as a whole and require thought. The words are chosen with care and notable as much for those not used as those included e.g.: 'Christ, untameably alive,/ breathe your life upon us - / Compass, Governor and Guide, / with us and beyond us,/ Sky and Sunlight, / spreading Vine./ Spring of Living Water,/ Truth and Wisdom, Way and Word,/ here, and then hereafter.' These hymns will be useful in worship as either sung or read pieces, and will also prove an invaluable resource for private devotion.

Robert Canham, Reform

SKU: HL.365041

ISBN 9781705135259. UPC: 840126960624. 9.0x12.0x0.359 inches.

The Strum Together series enables players of five different instruments – or any combination of them – to “strum together” on 70 great songs. This new, easy-to-use format features melody, lyrics, and chord diagrams for five popular folk instruments: standard ukulele, baritone ukulele, guitar, mandolin, and banjo. This collection includes 70 gospel/hymn favorites: Amazing Grace • Blessed Be the Name • Down by the Riverside • Great Is Thy Faithfulness • His Eye Is on the Sparrow • In the Garden • Just As I Am • Love Lifted Me • Nothing but the Blood • The Old Rugged Cross • Precious Memories • Rock of Ages • Shall We Gather at the River? • There Is a Balm in Gilead • What a Friend We Have in Jesus • When the Saints Go Marching In • and more.

SKU: LO.70-2470L

ISBN 9780787789343.

This collection of piano solos from Lloyd Larson builds upon the popularity of A Keyboard Festival of Hymns, Vol. 1 (70/2421L). Like its predecessor, this volume features five arrangements adapted for four-hand piano from Lloydâ??s cantata, A Festival of Hymns. These pieces may be performed as stand-alone selections, or they may function as an accompaniment for several correlating choral arrangements Lloyd has released over the years. Pianists will enjoy the symphonic treatment given to these hymns, and congregations will be blessed as they hear time-honored melodies come to life in a new way.

SKU: MN.10-467

UPC: 688670104671.

Useful and tuneful settings of five of the most used hymns in American churches. Fresh approaches to these tunes that will fit will into most organist’s repertoire.