I have recently heard from some Ward Choir directors asking for simpler music for inexperienced accompanists. Though I do try to keep the accompaniments easy, some pianists still struggle with even fairly simple piano parts.

Here are a couple of ways that an accompanist can “cheat” and simplify the written music somewhat. For instance, when there are octaves in the Bass part, the top note can be played alone instead of both. Another idea is to just play the arpeggios or chords in the Bass Clef with both hands and let the choir carry the melody by themselves without playing the Treble Clef. Another trick is to skip the middle notes (the Tenor and Alto) in a chord and just play the very bottom notes and the very top notes.

I admire all those accompanists out there who are willing to try even though it is hard. We are all amateurs just doing to best we can to serve where we are asked.

I realize Christmas is over for the year, but I am told it will come back around. I have just finished an SATB arrangement of Silent Night. So, for all you Ward choir directors who like to plan way in advance…see what you think!

A few weeks before Christmas I ordered a large box of padded envelopes. The same day, I ordered some Christmas presents for my Grand Daughters. They both arrived the same day and I hurriedly wrapped the presents and sent them off. Sadly, the box of envelopes was the same size as one of the presents. Sooo, you can guess what happened. I ended up sending the envelopes instead of the gift. Luckily, the recipient of the envelopes is only one year old, so she actually thought they were fun to play with.
Sigh.
The real present is on its way!

Some people are having problems downloading With Wondering Awe. So I have reposted it. Hopefully that solves the problem.

I just finished an SATB arrangement of Angels We Have Heard on High. It may be a little late for this Christmas season - or maybe not. It’s not too difficult. I usually let a piece sit for a few days and come back and play it again to get a fresh impression after hearing it over and over again, but I am posting this one immediately so those of you who want to can add it to your Christmas program this year.