A couple of great songs...a couple of simple ideas

A subject that could always bear repeating, I think, has to do with ‘how we as liturgical musicians play songs at mass.’  One of our favorite communion songs at Saint Ann’s is Josh Blakesley’s “We Come to You.” (spiritandsong.com)  Great melody, great text, very ‘fresh’ sounding.  Here is an example of keeping it simple: piano and vocals for the first verse and refrain, with acoustic in the refrain as well.  Notice how you can really hear the assembly singing. Also, notice the long period of silence before the music started.  It really helps to set a prayerful tone.

The way we treated the music was not anything ‘new’ or earth-shattering, but it was sensitive to the moment.  Think about how you approach songs at liturgy.  Don’t just copy the recording of the songs you play. Those arrangements may not be appropriate or even realistic for the liturgical needs at the time.

Here’s another example of a very simple idea in another great song, “Everlasting God” by Brenton Brown and Ken Riley (Thankyou Music)  This very short excerpt simply shows how we dropped out everything but the drums in one section of the song.  Again, a simple thing to do, but it has an effect.  Anytime you can let the assembly hear themselves sing, it’s a good thing.’ 

Again, nothing ‘new’ or earth-shattering, but it was effective.  (and it sounds cool!)  Have fun arranging!