In May there are lots of things to celebrate – Ascension Day, Memorial Day, confirmations, baptisms, graduations, and weddings!
So, here are seven hymn arrangements (in alphabetical order) ideal for Sundays, holidays, and special occasions in May.
Christ the King Medley
Celebrate Christ’s majesty – especially on Ascension Day – with a piano medley of four regal hymns: Crown Him with Many Crowns (Diademata), Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun (Duke Street), All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (Coronation), O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing (Azmon).
How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds (My God, Accept My Heart This Day)
Listeners will savor this sweet-sounding, simple-to-prepare piano arrangement of the hymn tune St. Peter. It’s perfect for baptisms and confirmations and is a nice addition to have in your repertoire for funerals and memorial services. Another hymn that uses this tune is In Christ There Is No East or West.
I Sing the Mighty Power of God with Praise to the Lord
Energize listeners with this jubilant piano medley featuring the hymn tunes Ellacombe and Lobe den Herren. Perfect for Ascension Day or anytime you want to add a little sparkle!
I Vow to Thee, My Country (O God Beyond All Praising)
This elegant and stately piano arrangement of Gustav Holst’s timeless hymn tune Thaxted can enrich church services, recitals, Memorial Day services, and weddings. It sounds impressive but it’s not difficult to prepare. Another hymn that uses this tune is O Spirit All-Embracing.
Joyful Canon (Canon in D with Ode to Joy)
Ode to Joy is also known as the hymn Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee or Hymn to Joy.
Listeners love hearing the fresh and familiar in this elegant, festive, and flexible piano medley. Condense or lengthen it by skipping or repeating sections that end in measures with a 6/4 meter. Perfect for weddings, recitals, and any time you need “filler” music!
Praise My Soul the King of Heaven
This simple-to-prepare piano arrangement of the hymn tune Lauda Anima will raise listeners’ spirits heavenward as it progresses through ascending key signatures. Appropriate for Ascension Day, it’s also a traditional favorite for weddings.
The King of Love My Shepherd Is
A tender piano setting of the Irish hymn tune St. Columba perfect for weddings, funerals, and memorial services. This arrangement is also available for solo oboe with piano accompaniment and for solo clarinet with piano accompaniment.