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Easy Hymns: 20 Timeless Hymns.


* Easy Hymns: 20 Timeless Hymns, arranged by Phillip Keveren. Hal Leonard Corp. (7777 W. Bluemound Rd., P.O. Box 13819, Milwaukee, WI 53213), 2005.47 pp. $9.95.

A welcome addition to the hymn arrangement repertoire is Phillip Keveren's Easy Hymns: 20 Timeless Hymns.

The hymn arrangements are presented in a simple and straightforward manner and although, these are beginning solos, the student must be well past five-finger positions and be knowledgeable of notes within a two-octave range. Rhythms include dotted patterns and eight-note groups, which present some challenge to the younger student but would be a useful hymn study for the late beginner. The tonality tonality (tōnăl`ĭtē), in music, quality by which all tones of a composition are heard in relation to a central tone called the keynote or tonic.  of each selection is the key of C, but definitely not in the "C" position. Accidentals are used freely, with enough fingering to guide the student but not find the notes for them. The texture of each hymn is not chordal chord·al
adj.
Of or relating to a chorda or cord.
; each hand has a significant part to play. This is especially useful for training students to read both staves equally. Rather than metronome markings, a tempo a tem·po  
adv. & adj. Music
In the tempo originally designated; resuming the initial tempo of a section or movement after a specified deviation from it. Used chiefly as a direction.
 suggestion in the form of a descriptive word is given, such as: "tenderly," "flowing," "jubilant" and "reverently rev·er·ent  
adj.
Marked by, feeling, or expressing reverence.



[Middle English, from Old French, from Latin rever
." This helps guide the student to the musical intention of the hymn. Lastly, the print is large, and both students and teachers may appreciate this.

The selections represent many denominations and most importantly, are all standard hymns, not contemporary worship music that is so prevalent in our churches today. This book will help preserve the rich heritage of these hymns, many of which are not commonly seen in current hymn arrangement books. Some of the titles included are: "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name is a popular hymn sung by many Christian denominations.

The hymn is often called the "National Anthem of Christendom."[1].
," "Be Thou My Vision Be Thou My Vision is a traditional Christian hymn, which can be traced to Ireland but is now sung in English-speaking churches around the world.

The text (Rop tú mo baile
, Rock of Ages," "Trust and Obey" and "Softly and Tenderly." One missing element in the book is the lack of hymn tunes such as "Slane" ("Be Thou My Vision"). As each hymn can have many texts depending on the denomination, some students may not realize that they actually know the hymn, but by another title. Also, a short history of each hymn could further endear en·dear  
tr.v. en·deared, en·dear·ing, en·dears
To make beloved or very sympathetic: a couple whose kindness endeared them to friends.
 it to the performer. This book is definitely worth the price! Reviewed by Becky Ward, Waco, Texas.
COPYRIGHT 2006 Music Teachers National Association, Inc.
No portion of this article can be reproduced without the express written permission from the copyright holder.
Copyright 2006, Gale Group. All rights reserved. Gale Group is a Thomson Corporation Company.

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Author:Ward, Becky
Publication:American Music Teacher
Article Type:Book Review
Date:Feb 1, 2006
Words:361
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