A few months back Tim listed some of his favorite Jazz standards for use in worship. On the bandstand these songs provide ample opportunity for the band members to strut their stuff. But these tunes are also appropriate for worship where the band presents their individual and collective improvisations as a faithful offering on God’s sacred altar.
Now that we’re in the midst of the Lenten season, are these songs still appropriate for worship during this traditional season of introspection and prayer? While all of the standards that Tim mentioned hold promise I’d like to share my thoughts about a few which I believe are appropriate during this season of lamentation. All of the following can be used as service music during morning worship or evening vespers.
First, the obvious—J. J. Johnson’s “Lament.” As a slow melodic ballad it conjures up the meaning of its title. After playing through a chorus or two, transition into a swing tempo to provide a very different feeling. It’s not joyous, but there is an upbeat quality that mirrors triumph over struggle, hope over despair.
Speaking of despair, Coltrane’s “Alabama” is one of the greatest jazz compositions of all time, lifting up the despair following the Birmingham bombing killing four little girls. The opening rubato melody creates the mode and when the rhythm section comes in cranking it up just a notch, an improvisatory palette is created to express the depth of heart-felt lamentation.
“Search for Peace” by McCoy Tyner is a beautiful journey into the soundscape of searching for unity, hope and peaceful resolution to the bitterness and strife of our world. I’ve written lyrics to McCoy’s expansive melody that have touched many in the pew:
Seeking a new horizon, searching for unity, all I see is set in confusion, love an illusion. How can it be?
Hoping to find an answer, yearning for sanity, but the world seems bent on destruction, lost in seduction. How can it be?
Searching for peace in the chaos and the strife. Hoping for peace to bring meaning to life. How can I make any difference at all? I’m just one voice feeling small.
Yet when it all seems hopeless, your gentle voice I hear: “Take my hand, we’ll do it together, make the world better. Peace is so near.”
It’s not an easy song to sing but in the hands of an accomplished vocalist the results can be amazing.
One final suggestion: “Prayer” by Keith Jarrett. It’s a wonderfully simple melody and is perfect for a trio, but add a horn and it gains color and depth. The song should definitely be played as a prayer, inviting he congregation to join in the spirit of prayer as you offer your prayerful improvisation.
Hoping that this will inspire you to invite the music of these great jazz giants into your sanctuary.