You are cordially invited (via Calvary’s Facebook page or website) to join me this forthcoming Sunday evening, November 15, at 7:30 for a book/CD virtual release party of TRANSFORMATIONS: Ten Piano Solos Based on Timeless Hymn Tunes.

From earliest memories, my life and faith have been transformed by hymnody. Hymn texts represented my initial exposure to poetry, introducing me to metre, rhyme, and allegory. Along with Holy Scripture, they have acted as time-release capsules, as fresh facets of meaning are uncovered at each re-visiting, and as new works are revealed. (As the son of a professional artist and fine-art photographer, visual art for me can elicit a similar ever-expanding richness.)

In no small part, the often-mystical union of words and music inspired me toward a career largely centered around composing choral music. And I continue to be transformed by the sublime power of the sung word. Either on its own or within the context of choral counterpoint, my goal of composing a satisfying melodic line remains deeply influenced by closely examining the characteristics of concise, time-honored hymn tunes—especially those from the folk tradition.

This book was born directly out of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when traditional choral and congregational singing was deemed dangerous and, consequently, all but forbidden. How could my very definition of singing (and composing for the voice) be redefined—and indeed transformed—in a way that could continue honoring our beloved heritage of enduring sacred song?  Joining hymnwriter Robert Lowry, but with a slightly altered question, I asked “How can I keep [from] singing?” Ultimately, I took on the task of writing this new set of piano solos based on some of my favorite hymn tunes, several of which are known with multiple texts.

All the source melodies in this book are cherished friends I’ve loved deeply for decades, and I hope that these new arrangements transform them in gentle, respectful ways that sing with gestures and colors idiomatic to the piano.

Gratefully,

Howard