The season of Lent holds such beautiful significance, and is equal parts somber, humbling, and quietly joyful in the waiting for Easter. As a church pianist, it is a real challenge to find piano music for Lent that balances these things well! It can be tempting to play the same things that have always been played. The downfall to this is that it makes it difficult to really focus on the beauty and depth of the lyrics and/or music when your brain has heard something year after year!
These Lenten pieces aren’t just interesting arrangements for the sake of being interesting. They connect to the lyrics and deeper meaning of the pieces, and I find myself paying more attention to both the words and their significance when my ears are surprised by new harmonies or rhythmic patterns. (You can find all of our sacred music in the Student Solutions Catalog here).
Elementary Level Lenten Music
Listed below are a couple of our newest/most popular Elementary level piano pieces for lent. Below that, you’ll find even more sacred music at the elementary level.
NEW! When I Survey the Wondrous Cross:
- Comfortable C position
- LH uses primarily 2 chords
- Begins tenderly, develops into a mature sound
- Not too slow!
- 2 versions included (with and without lyrics)
- Easy pedaling – every 2 mm.
- Unfolds into a broad sound, and ends quietly
Intermediate Level Music for Lent and Palm Sunday
Below are a couple Intermediate Level piano pieces for lent, as well as a list of even more pieces perfect for the Lenten season!
Hosanna, Loud Hosanna (also called I Sing the Mighty Power of God)
- Oh, so celebratory!
- Not western, but a more Jewish sound
- Energy, mystery
- Hosanna!
Oh the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus
- Simple but profound
- Fingering, pedal, and articulations included
- Especially lovely for Lent, Good Friday, communion, or offertory
- Part of the Celtic Hymn Series
- Relaxing yet intricately designed
- Irish flavor gives new life to an old Irish tune
- Subtle modulations and rhythm shifts
Brethren, We Have Met to Worship (also known as Christ as Risen!)
Advancing Level Music for Lent and Easter
- Deeply passionate, hopeful, and sorrowful
- Reflects the pain of Lent, while being hopeful for Easter
- Falls easily under the hands
Christ the Lord is Risen Today
- Very adventurous
- More unusual setting, but a bit “Copland-esque”
Bundles of Lenten Music
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Product on sale
Bundle: Near the Cross + When I Survey + HosannaOriginal price was: $32.97.$30.99Current price is: $30.99. -
Product on sale
Bundle: Late Intermediate Sacred Piano ArrangementsOriginal price was: $43.96.$39.99Current price is: $39.99. -
Product on sale
Bundle: Elementary Sacred Piano ArrangementsOriginal price was: $32.97.$30.99Current price is: $30.99. -
Product on sale
Bundle: Early to Mid Intermediate Sacred Piano ArrangementsOriginal price was: $32.97.$30.99Current price is: $30.99.
Whether you are playing music for a congregation or within the quiet of your own home this Lenten season, we hope these piano pieces for lent breathe new life and fresh perspective into your heart and playing!
Does your church celebrate the Easter or Lenten season with any traditions or music? Let us know in the comments!
