Welcome to the page about my most recent piano album, “Take my Hands”.

The title of the album was inspired by the words of Frances Ridley Havergal:

Take my hands and let them move
at the impulse of thy love.

Although it is unlikely he was talking about piano playing, this is certainly something I have prayed on many occasions, as I sit down at the keyboard to play. As you listen, I hope you’ll be inspired by the impulse of God’s love too!

And don’t forget: £5.00 from the sale of every copy of ‘Take my Hands’ will be donated to World Vision, a Christian Charity which helps over 75 million people across 6 continents, in projects of relief, development and rehabilitation.

Click hee to buy your copy of “Take my Hands” from New Music Enterprises for only GB£13.00 (inc.p&p anywhere in the world!)

Meanwhile, click on the grey triangles below to enjoy listening to an extract from each track on the album:

Track 1: The Resurrection and the Life

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John 11:25 says: “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me will live, even though he dies.” The opening theme of this piece continually changes key upwards, which lifts the music as well as your heart and soul. Some lush harmonies in the middle section too. (5′ 10″)

Track 2: It’s Your Kindness

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Written by me and my mate Paul Heatley. Romans 2:4 says, “In kindness, he (God) takes us firmly by the hand and leads us into a radical life change.” (The Message). I hope this song will encourage you into a radical life change too. (5′ 42″)

Track 3: Through the Valley

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Psalm 23 says: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, though art with me. Thy rod and staff comfort me.” This piece aims to be both mournful and comforting – I hope you like it. (3′ 50″)

Track 4: There is Hope

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This piece is – rather unusually – in 5/4 time. I’d like to dedicate it to my ‘big brother’ Clive Rahn, who once had a sticker of this phrase in the window of his Mk3 Escort! (3’33”)

Track 5: Carillon for the Children of Eritrea

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Eritrea is as small country in NE Africa, bordering Ethiopia. This piece is dedicated to all those who have suffered due famine and war across the African continent, but particularly in Eritrea.(3′ 57″)

Track 6: Justice for all Nations

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I recently discovered the sharpened 11th chord, which opens this piece. I want these dischords to symbolize the struggle of the poorer countries of the world and to urge us all to continue to strive for justice for all nations. (4′ 05″)

Track 7: Song for Judy

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This song is in memory of Judy Feil, a dear friend and an altogether lovely person who served The Lord in so many ways. She was taken to be with Him in November 2000 and is greatly missed. (4′ 39″)

Track 8: With Outstretched Hands

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Some of my favourite chords in this one. Partly a play on words, as you need to stretch out your hands to reach all the notes of the chord, but also a call to us all to use our hands to help the poor and needy. “She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy” Proverbs 31:20 (4′ 37″)

Track 9: Eternity Starts Here

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The repeated arpeggios in this piece describe the idea of eternity, which, for a Christian, begins now. I’d like to dedicate this to my pastor, Steve Plummer, who often says; “God doesn’t just offer us pie in the sky when we die, but also steak on a plate while we wait!” (3′ 21″)

Track 10: The Dove Descending

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This song describes the Holy Spirit descending like a dove, as at Christ’s baptism in Mark 1:10. This one’s for you, Lois, with thanks for being a great wife and for all your support in the making of this album.
(4′ 30″)

Track 11: Wait for the Lord

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Thanks to Arvo Part and JS Bach, who have both inspired me to compose this track. It is somewhat minimalist in nature, but also calm, reflective and unrushed. Surprisingly, this was one of the hardest pieces to play, as there is little scope for improvisation. (5′ 22″)

Track 12: Take my Hands

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The notes used for this piece are exactly the same as in the hymn “Take my life and let it be,” but with the rhythm and harmony altered. The second verse of this song begins: “Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love” – hence the title. I dedicate this song to all of you who are listening to this recording. May God use your hands to help others and serve Him. (3′ 10″)

Did you enjoy the music? Then click here and buy your copy of “Take my Hands” now.

All compositions and CD sound samples Copyright Rob Baker 2003-2006
All rights reserved. Unauthorised copying, reproduction, lending, public performance or broadcasting prohibited.
Recorded on a Steinway Piano at SRT Studios, St. Ives, Cambridge on 11th April 2003
Album cover photo: Lucy Ward.
CD duplication: CD sourcing