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Jeff Bjorck grew up with the grand old hymns. They rang out from the record player and radio at home, and he sang them every week in church. His deep love for these classic melodies has inspired his fourth Pure Piano CD, This I Know: Ageless Hymns of Faith. With nine new hymn arrangements and six returning favorites, this CD features almost 75 minutes of Bjorck's interpretations of the music that helped to shape his faith in Christ. He states, "Each of these pieces is a personal favorite, anchored in rich history, relevant for today, and pointing me to a 'hope and a future' (Jeremiah 29:11)." The six tracks previously released on earlier CDs were recorded between 1995 and 2005, as were "Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus," "It Is Well With My Soul," and "Jesus Loves Me." The remaining six new pieces were recorded in 2007. This I Know provides more of Jeff's signature quiet music to calm the heart in a noisy world. A number of the arrangements can also be enjoyed with the volume turned up way up reflecting their heritage as rousing anthems. While developing these pieces, Jeff became aware of musical influences planted during his childhood that reemerged as he played. "Our church pianist was a student of Rudy Atwood, renowned accompanist for Charles E. Fuller s Old Fashioned Revival Hour radio broadcast. Mr. Atwood even came and played at our church once when I was a boy. As I composed these hymns, I was surprised to hear hints of his style in my own playing. It is no small coincidence that I would grow up to become a professor at the seminary founded by Charles Fuller. That s quite an interesting full circle!" Fittingly, this CD is being released in the very same year that Fuller Seminary celebrates its 60th birthday. Although Jeff acknowledges the influence of old-time religion, the arrangements on This I Know represent a fresh approach to these classic hymns. In fact, some hymn lovers may be challenged to recognize all fifteen pieces in their current forms, each of which present variations of the original themes. Bjorck insists, however, that "While I play these arrangements, I hear the old hymns clearly at least in my head!" Whereas most hymns are typically associated with the authors who penned their lyrics, the composers of the melodies are generally less well known. With this in mind, Jeff views this CD as a tribute, first and foremost, to the composers. "Although I know at least some lyrics to all of these hymns, it is their melodies that are indelibly carved in my consciousness. I would not be surprised if the same were true for many listeners!"

User Reviews about This I Know: Ageless Hymns of Faith

This is one of the best albums of hymn arrangements I have ever heard. This guy is extraordinarily talented. -- Absolutely gorgeous!

"This I Know" is a collection of hymns arranged by pianist Jeff Bjorck, who is a leading composer in the genre variously known as "contemporary instrumental," "adult instrumental," or "new age." Six of the tracks are remastered versions of pieces that appeared on previous albums by Bjorck, but the remaining 9 tracks are all new, for an impressive 70+ minutes of beautiful music. I am a primarily a fan of new age music and discovered Bjorck through his other albums ("Impressions in Black and White," "Pure Piano Portraits," and "Pure Piano Panoramas," all equally excellent albums). Bjorck has created lush, romantic arrangements of classic hymns in this album that should please fans of both new age and spiritual music.

All of the tracks on this CD are strong; my favorites, though, were "Fairest Lord Jesus," "Jerusalem," "Be Still My Soul," and "All Creatures of Our God and King." "Jerusalem" in particular was simply outstanding: The song begins with a call and refrain of a long, rumbling bass note that you feel deep in your chest followed by a delicate sprinkling of high treble notes spelling out the melody. The song then transitions into chords that inspire and challenge. Oh, it may also be worth mentioning for the benefit of other listeners less familiar with spiritual music that--while "Day by Day" is very pleasant--it is not the song from Godspell but another hymn. ;)

In all, an excellent album and one well worth purchasing, especially for those who are looking for a more contemporary take on classic hymns. -- Deeply moving arrangements for fans of spiritual and new age music

Jeff Bjorck reinterprets these classic hymns beautifully. Some Sundays we play Jeff's music during our gathering time before our time of corporate worship at our church. The music sets just the right tone. -- Sets the tone

This is a wonderful collection of Bjorck's renditions of classic hymns. I love listening to the beautiful music...it is food for the soul, and a lovely musical portrait for the senses. I particularly enjoyed reading Bjorck's description of the personal meaning that each hymn has for him. I have given this CD and other CD's of Bjorck's piano music to friends, and they absolutely love it! Whenever I have Bjorck's music on in the background, friends who call me on the phone, or are accompanying me in my car will inevitably ask, "What is that music? It is BEAUTIFUL....." I do highly recommend that you get this CD, as well as some of Bjork's other CD's....you will be glad you did. -- Beautiful Music for the Soul

This CD is my favorite birthday gift. I've been going through a stressful time in my life and the music of these beautiful hymns, seeps into my heart like a soothing balm. I often listen before going to sleep at night. I highly recommend this CD to anyone who needs a few moments of peace, and an extra assurance of God's love. -- A Soothing Balm