Music Goodness: September 2014

Legalese

MY MUSIC WAS FREE
For several years, I have given my music away for free. That's right - not one cent. I have been met with resistance from the "pay folks" and have been the indirect subject of how free music isn't really appreciated yadda yadda. As I have and will continue to maintain my music is my way of paying it forward. Because the Lord has blessed me with the talents and I really have no desire to make any money from my music, I have wrestled with how I can feel better about what I do and dismiss the critics. And let me say, I have no problems with those who do sell their music - just their communication on why they think that pay music is superior to free music.
So, effective immediately my music will have a cost. The format is quite simple:
If you use my music in any performance, I would request you make a donation to either the general missionary or humanitarian fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I don't care if you contribute $5.00 or $.05. It's just a way to further the work of the Lord by you paying it forward. Think of the good you can do for a struggling missionary or refugee seeking refuge and safety. The scripture, "...if ye have done it unto the least of these, ye have done it unto me" comes very clearly into my head.
I don't need or want to know of your contribution - that is up to you. My website will be updated with this information. I hope you find favor with this new method and pray the Lords choicest blessings on you as you reach out to His children.

By clicking on a link to listen or download, you agree:

* That you can copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format for any purpose, even commercially as long as you give appropriate credit and provide a link to this website (ldshappymusic.com).
* You may not remix, re-engineer or otherwise alter the music or words without permission from the author(s).
* My originals are NOT sactioned/approved by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Permission from your Priesthood leader prior to rehearsing/performing is recommended.
* No warranties are given or implied. The work shall remain the property of LDS Happy Music.
* And lastly, please enjoy the music. Comments are encouraged. :)

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Let Me Cry

MP3 - Let Me Cry
PDF - Let Me Cry

Once again, I found a beautiful poem by my Grandmother. It was in a time where she recently lost a dear loved one. She used poetry to share her life, and this is but a small part. Though I've never seen her cry, I know she does, and so must we. I hope I honor her by this arranging of her beautiful, thoughtful poem.

Note: I made some editorial changes to the poem to make it fit to the tune, but the intent is left.

If you see me sitting where no one else is with me there,
and you see tears upon my cheek, please don't think you have to speak
Just let me cry.

All of us must cry sometime. It's not so strange; it's no crime.
Life has its joys and many trials, faces can't show endless smiles
as time goes by.

Sometimes a beautiful surprise will bring teardrops to my eyes,
and I laugh through the tears that fall, not minding being seen at all.
But why should I?

In my life tears play quite a role; always seem to cleanse my soul,
especially if my sorrowing heart will be the reason for tears to start.
And I must cry.

If I need comfort I'll go where I can seek my Lord in prayer.
I know He's always standing by, and yes He knows I, too must cry,
and the reason why.

Shepherd, Shake Off Your Drowsy Sleep

MP3 -Shepherd, Shake Off Your Drowsy Sleep
PDF - Shepherd, Shake Off Your Drowsy Sleep

An old Christmas hymn that I've always loved. I re-arranged it a bit to make it more interesting for choir members. I hope you enjoy it.

1. Shepherd, shake off your drowsy sleep!
Rise and leave your beloved sheep! Angels from heav'n around are singing, Tidings of great joy are bringing. Shepherd, the chorus come and swell! Sing Noel! O sing Noel!

2. See how the flowr's all burst anew, Thinking snow is summer dew;See how the stars afresh are glowing All their brightest beams bestowing, Shepherd, the chorus come and swell! Sing Noel! O sing Noel!

3. Shepherd, then up and quick away! Seek the babe ere break of day. He is the hope of ev'ry nation,All in Him shall find salvation. Shepherd, the chorus come and swell! Sing Noel! O sing Noel!

O come O Come Emmanuel

MP3 - O Come O Come Emmanuel
PDF - O Come O Come Emmanuel

I originally arranged this for a friend a couple years ago, but sadly they never performed it, so I revamped it a little. It is scored for Soprano, Alto, Piano and Cello. The Soprano range goes up to a high A, an the Alto part goes in the basement. :) I tried to transpose to make the voices a bit better, but couldn't find anything that suited me. Of course the voices could be played by any C-instrument and make a nice trio. The arrangement is a combination of O Come O Come Emmanuel and Lully Lullay (Coventry Carol) intertwined. I think it goes well together. I hope you enjoy it and please leave comments. :)