Advent

Piano Meditations on the Coming of the Messiah

By Mark Hayes

I have played each and every piece in this collection (not always something I’ve done with other books). This is a keeper. Mark’s arrangements aren’t always easy, but sound so beautiful it makes the practice so enjoyable.

This book will provide church musicians with much-needed options during Advent. Many resources claim to offer appropriate selections that are actually Christmas music. Musicians in churches that follow the liturgical calendar know that there is a difference, so I'm grateful to now be able to enlarge my Advent...

repertoire. The arrangements sound more difficult than they actually are, and they don't require hours of preparation.

Mark Hayes definitely has the arranger's touch for piano music. These pieces are so rich in sound, and so playable. Can't wait to play the book at our Christmas Eve midnight service; my old boss Gregg Smith would give it an A+.

These meditative arrangements are sublimely beautiful. As a pianist for a Catholic parish, these are ideal pre-service meditations. I have received many compliments on these from parishioners, and of course the credit goes the Mark Hayes.

[...] But I am very familiar with the work of Mark Hayes, and know that it is always amazing; so I took a chance. The book arrived today, August 5th, I sightread through the entire book, and now am so excited about the up-coming Advent season. I almost wish it...

was November as I can't wait to share these pieces with my congregation. Do not be intimidated by the recording of "Let All Mortal Flesh Be Silent" as it sounds much harder to play than it actually is. This book will supply my communion meditation needs for all of Advent, providing gorgeous background music for silent prayer and reflection. Thank you, Mark Hayes, for recharging my passion for these time-honored hymns and carols. This book is a treasure.......buy it!