There's So Much to be Thankful For: Music

This topic was easy...anyone who knows me can tell you that I am a music nerd (and I will freely admit to it!) I am so thankful that God has given us the gift of music... and that He has gifted so many talented people with the ability to write lyrics and tunes that inspire us now and, in some cases, have inspired people for centuries!

This post is bound to be a little ecclectic...much like my musical taste. I am simply going to throw out some favorite music recommendations; some are inspiring, some are encouraging, and some are just plain fun!

-Favorite musical to listen to and sing along with: Wicked. Hands down. Its even better to watch a live performance! :-)

-Favorite new artist: Brandon Heath. I have yet to own any of his cds, but I love his sound. Check out the music videos for two of his songs..."Wait and See", and "Give Me Your Eyes".

-Favorite classical composers: Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsy, and Chopin

-Favorite current composer: Dan Forrest. Click here to listen to excerpts from the cd of his recent choral works. My favorites are the "Words from Paradise", "Goodnight, Dear Heart", and "Oread Farewell"

-Favorite instrument: Piano...especially if its a full concert grand. I firmly belive there will be pianos in Heaven.

-Favorite classical song I attempt to play on piano: Chopin's "Revolutionary Etude op 10 no 12". Look it up... there's no other way to put it...this song rocks. If I ever play it even a fraction of how its supposed to sound it'll be an accomplishment.

-Favorite guy singer: Josh Groban and David Phelps compete for first.

-Favorite woman singer: Don't really have one...any suggestions?

-Favorite instrument to listen to: Besides piano, probably the french horn or saxaphone.

-Favorite hymn: There are many, but my current favorite is "Jesus I am Resting, Resting" I love this hymn set to a new tune... but the words are spectacular. I leave you to ponder their depth.

Jesus I am resting, resting
In the Joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee,
And Thy beauty fills my soul,
For by Thy transforming power
Thou hast made me whole.

O how great Thy loving kindness.
Vaster, broader than the sea!
O how marvellous Thy goodness,
Lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in Thee, Beloved,
Know what wealth of grace is Thine,
Know Thy certainty of promise,
And have made it mine.

Simply trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,
I behold Thee as Thou art,
And Thy love, so pure, so changeless,
Satisfies my heart;
Satisfies its deepest longings,
Meets supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings;
Thine is love indeed!

Ever lift Thy face upon me,
As I work and wait for Thee;
Resting 'neath Thy smile, Lord Jesus,
Earth's dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father's glory,
Sunshine of my Father's face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting;
Fill me with Thy grace.

Chorus:

Jesus, I am resting, resting
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.