When I was in college, during a theory class, we were all in a piano lab. Rows and rows of small keyboards, all connected to the teacher’s headphones. He could push a button and listen into what we were playing. He would then discuss with us how we were applying the material.
photo credit: morguefile.com | pippalou
I don’t remember the specific assignment, but I remember playing for him a chord progression under the melody of “Sweet Hour of Prayer” that has stayed with me to this day. I’ve played it a few times in church, repeatedly in private, but I have never developed it into a full arrangement.
Until now.
I started with that chord progression, but developed a new idea. The progression is still there in places, but the song is more fully developed.
Today, I’m excited to pass along to you for free the arrangement that started that day in theory class, some thirteen years ago.
The arrangement explores in the first verse the private tenderness and the rest we find when we spend time with God in prayer. The second verse has more movement, reflecting the text that says “thy wings shall my petition bear.” It builds with excitement as the petitions are taken to “Him whose truth and faithfulness engage the waiting soul to bless.”
I hope you’ll think of the words as you practice and play. And enjoy the music!
“Sweet Hour of Prayer” – Words by William Walford:
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
That calls me from a world of care,
And bids me at my Father’s throne
Make all my wants and wishes known.
In seasons of distress and grief,
My soul has often found relief,
And oft escaped the tempter’s snare,
By thy return, sweet hour of prayer!
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
Thy wings shall my petition bear
To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His Word and trust His grace,
I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!