Johannes H. Hindriks

Dutch-born Johannes moved to the United States in 1994. His musical interests vary widely in genre and period. However, his particular fields of interest remain Classical, Jazz and ethnic traditions, all of which are reflected in the variety of his scores available here.

His Comfort Covers Song Series for Mezzo-Soprano lead voice, Baritone harmony voice and guitar is an extensive collection of arrangements of well loved songs geared towards patients and their loved ones. They stem from his long-time experience in singing and playing as a Hospice Volunteer. He learned that this particular setting differs essentially from sharing one’s artistry with an appreciative audience. The intimacy of Hospice requires an approach in which companionship and selfless service are the chief determinants for a meaningful interaction with the listeners. This unique exchange brings its own rewards which hardly can be put into words but are forever cherished by those who have experienced them.

Patients and their caretakers tend to be emotionally drained and are best served with melodious pieces, not too brash or busy. Therefore, Comfort Covers present calmer, more soothing versions of known songs while the originals remain recognizable. Most guitar chords are “open” (close to the nut)  so as to contribute to the warm roundness of the sound but also to keep the scores more accessible to the musicians, many of whom are fellow Volunteers.

The Baritone, instead of just adding “the second voice”, winds its own way between the lead voice and the bassline of the guitar, thereby amalgamating the sound into what makes a song a Comfort Cover.

Of course, Comfort Covers may be used outside their original purpose – they naturally lend themselves to functions such as funerals, memorial services, prayer sessions, spiritual retreats, or congregational gatherings including those with limited musical resources.

For a full rubricized list of Comfort Covers, please visit Johannes’ Comfort Covers page.
For a full rubricized list of Johannes’ other scores, please visit Johannes’ Sheet Shelf page.