Music Store
Hymns with Walter
Solo Piano by Ron Klusmeier
CD
$20
Two of my previous solo piano recordings (Hymns for Minnie and Hymns for Heinz) were produced in memory of two individuals and featured ‘heritage’ hymns which had been important to each of them.
This recording honours one of my writing partners—one who continues to be among my closest friends. Thus, the title is not “Hymns for Walter” but, instead, “Hymns with Walter”. Walter Farquharson and I have co-written close to 200 hymns, songs, anthems, cantatas, and a musical drama. The music on this recording was inspired by Walter’s words. The melodies which are at the heart of these ten improvisations were created for—and, in my mind, are ‘married’ to—the poetry which drew the music out of me.
Except for those wonderful, often magical, times when we visit each other, we have always been separated by time zones and geography. Yet our friendship has deep roots, our spirits are truly kindred, and our faith journeys are tightly interwoven.
As I played and recorded these pieces late into the night—even through some of the improvisations which wandered out from familiar melodies (to which they eventually returned!)—Walter’s words were always there. It was not possible to play without singing them to myself.
—Ron Klusmeier
- Flowers Will Bloom in the Desert (listen to sample)
- Jesus, Teacher, Brave and Bold
- Walls That Divide
- The Quiet of the Water
- Teach Me, God, To Wonder
- Give To Us Laughter (listen to sample)
- Hold the Child Gently
- Would You Bless Our Homes and Families (listen to sample)
- Stay With Us (listen to sample)
- Friends, Let Us Love Each Other