See The Temple Paul Cardall Sheet Music — I Love To
| Arranger | Style | Difficulty | Best for | |----------|-------|------------|----------| | Paul Cardall | New age / meditative | Late intermediate | Recitals, prelude, personal reflection | | Sally DeFord (free) | Traditional hymn style | Early intermediate | Congregational singing | | Marshall McDonald | Classical / romantic | Advanced | Concert setting | | Craig Petrie | Contemporary pop-ballad | Intermediate | Youth sacrament meetings |
Cardall’s is the most emotionally evocative but also the least useful for accompanying singers (rubato and wide arpeggios make keeping tempo hard).
Because this is copyrighted material (Janice Kapp Perry wrote the melody; Paul Cardall holds the copyright for his arrangement), you cannot find this for free on public domain sites. To get the legal, high-quality Paul Cardall sheet music, you have three primary options:
YouTube is filled with tutorials for this piece, but there is a significant difference between learning the notes and understanding the interpretation. When you purchase the official Paul Cardall sheet music for "I Love to See the Temple," you gain access to his specific dynamic markings, fingerings, and pedal notations.
Here is why the official sheet music is superior:
| Category | Score (out of 10) | |----------|------------------| | Emotional impact | 9.5 | | Harmonic creativity | 9.0 | | Clarity of engraving | 7.5 (page turns dock it) | | Accessibility for stated difficulty | 6.5 (overestimates intermediate players) | | Value for price ($5–6) | 8.0 |
Overall: 8.1/10 – A beautiful, professional arrangement that succeeds as art but stumbles slightly in pedagogical layout. It’s the definitive piano solo version of I Love to See the Temple for meditative, non-congregational use. If you can handle large left-hand leaps and have good pedal control, you will love playing it. If not, look for an easier arrangement first, then return to Cardall as a goal piece.
I understand you're looking for the sheet music to "I Love to See the Temple" as arranged by Paul Cardall, the renowned LDS pianist.
Here’s how you can find it:
Important Note: Avoid illegal free PDF sites. Cardall is an active, working artist, and purchasing his sheet music supports his music ministry and family (he is a heart transplant recipient and advocates for congenital heart disease research).
If you can’t find his exact arrangement, consider learning the standard hymn and adding your own arpeggiated left-hand patterns (listening to his recording for style), as his published sheet music often matches the album version note-for-note.
Would you like help identifying the album this arrangement originally appears on?
I Love to See the Temple: A Beautiful Hymn by Paul Cardall
The sweet and soothing sounds of Paul Cardall's piano arrangements have brought joy and comfort to countless individuals around the world. One of his most beloved pieces is "I Love to See the Temple," a beautiful hymn that has been a source of inspiration and peace for many. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at this stunning arrangement and explore the story behind it.
About Paul Cardall
Paul Cardall is a renowned pianist and composer known for his delicate and expressive arrangements of hymns and classical music. Born with a rare genetic disorder called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Paul has faced numerous challenges throughout his life. However, his disability has not hindered his passion for music, and he has become one of the most celebrated pianists of our time.
The Story Behind "I Love to See the Temple"
"I Love to See the Temple" is a hymn written by Joseph L. E. White, with music composed by Scottish hymn writer and poet, George Matheson. The hymn was originally titled "O, How I Love to See the Temple" and was published in 1880. The lyrics reflect the longing to be in the presence of God, surrounded by the beauty and glory of His temple.
Paul Cardall's Arrangement
Paul Cardall's arrangement of "I Love to See the Temple" is a breathtakingly beautiful rendition that showcases his mastery of the piano. The piece begins with a gentle and lilting melody, gradually building in complexity and emotion as it progresses. The arrangement features a delicate balance of melody and harmony, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.
Sheet Music and Performance
For those interested in learning and performing "I Love to See the Temple," sheet music is available online through various music retailers and Paul Cardall's official website. The sheet music features the piano arrangement, as well as the lyrics to the hymn.
If you're interested in hearing a live performance of the piece, there are numerous videos available on YouTube and other online platforms featuring Paul Cardall's stunning piano playing.
Why "I Love to See the Temple" Matters
"I Love to See the Temple" is more than just a beautiful piece of music; it's a reflection of our deep-seated desire to connect with something greater than ourselves. In a world filled with noise and distractions, this hymn offers a moment of peace and reflection, reminding us of the beauty and majesty of God.
For Paul Cardall, "I Love to See the Temple" holds a special significance, as it reflects his own personal faith and spirituality. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, Paul's music has been a source of comfort and inspiration to countless individuals, and "I Love to See the Temple" is no exception. i love to see the temple paul cardall sheet music
Conclusion
"I Love to See the Temple" is a timeless and beautiful hymn that has captured the hearts of many. Paul Cardall's arrangement is a masterful interpretation that showcases his technical skill and emotional depth. Whether you're a music lover, a person of faith, or simply someone looking for a moment of peace, this piece is sure to inspire and uplift.
If you're interested in exploring more of Paul Cardall's music, be sure to check out his official website and social media channels, where you can find a wealth of information about his music, upcoming performances, and sheet music.
Sheet Music Details
Where to Find the Sheet Music
You can find the sheet music for "I Love to See the Temple" through various online retailers, including:
We hope you've enjoyed this look at "I Love to See the Temple" by Paul Cardall. Whether you're a music lover, a person of faith, or simply someone looking for a moment of peace, this beautiful hymn is sure to inspire and uplift.
Paul Cardall 's arrangement of "I Love to See the Temple" is a reverent, peaceful piano piece originally featured on his 2005 album Primary Worship
. It is widely sought after for its gentle, New Age style that focuses on emotional depth and spiritual reflection. Available Sheet Music Versions
Official digital sheet music for this arrangement can be found on platforms like Musicnotes Virtual Sheet Music , generally available in two formats: Piano Solo
: A 5-page instrumental arrangement typically set in the key of . This version does not include lyrics. 2-Part Choir + Piano : A 6-page arrangement in
that includes complete lyrics and a vocal range of Bb3–Eb5. Musicnotes.com Where to Buy & Download
You can purchase and print the music instantly from the following retailers:
Finding the right arrangement for a beloved hymn can transform a simple practice session into a deeply spiritual experience. For many pianists and fans of contemporary sacred music, the phrase "I love to see the temple Paul Cardall sheet music" represents more than just a search for notes—it is a search for a specific, peaceful atmosphere that Cardall’s "Primary Worship" style is known for. The Appeal of Paul Cardall’s "I Love to See the Temple"
Paul Cardall is celebrated for his ability to take simple, familiar melodies—like this Janice Kapp Perry classic—and infuse them with a meditative, cinematic quality. His arrangement of "I Love to See the Temple" is a staple for those who want a version that feels both reverent and modern.
Musical Style: Unlike the upbeat, march-like rhythm often heard in Primary classes, Cardall’s version is typically a piano solo in D♭ Major, characterized by flowing arpeggios and a slower, more contemplative tempo.
Skill Level: His arrangements are generally accessible for intermediate pianists, though beginners can find simplified versions that still capture the essence of his signature "Peaceful Piano" sound. Where to Find the Official Sheet Music
If you are looking to play this specific arrangement, there are several reliable ways to download or purchase it:
Digital Downloads (Musicnotes): The most direct way to get the single is through Musicnotes.com. They offer a high-resolution PDF download in the original key, and their interactive player allows you to transpose the music if D♭ Major is a bit too "flat" for your preference.
The Hymns Collection: This song is a centerpiece of The Hymns Collection, a physical and digital songbook that includes 29 of his most popular LDS and Christian hymn arrangements.
Official Website: You can also browse his Official Piano Compositions on his personal website, which often features bundles and exclusive scores. Alternative Arrangements and Formats
While the solo piano version is the most sought-after, Cardall has also released other versions of this song to accommodate different musical needs:
Choral Arrangements: There is a 2-Part Choir + Piano arrangement available for those who want to use this style for a ward choir or a special musical number.
Simplified Church Versions: If you are a beginner or playing for a primary class, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides a free, simplified version that is excellent for learning the basic melody before jumping into Cardall’s more complex textures. Why This Arrangement Matters Paul Cardall Sheet Music | Official Piano Compositions
You can find the official sheet music for Paul Cardall's arrangement of "I Love to See the Temple" as a digital download or as part of a printed collection. Digital Sheet Music | Arranger | Style | Difficulty | Best
For immediate access, you can download the digital version from these retailers:
Musicnotes: Offers the Instrumental Solo arrangement in the original published key of Db Major. It is a 5-page score typically priced around $5.99.
Musicnotes (Primary Worship Album): This piece is featured in the Primary Worship collection, which includes other popular arrangements like "I Am a Child of God". Printed Collections If you prefer a physical book, the piece is included in: The Hymns Collection (Hal Leonard)
: A comprehensive songbook featuring Cardall's signature piano solo styles. Amazon : Often stocks the Hymns Collection
softcover book, which contains 112 pages of his most popular spiritual arrangements. Piece Details Difficulty: Generally categorized as Intermediate. Key: Originally written in Db Major. Style: New Age / Religious Piano Solo.
If you are a fan of Paul Cardall’s soulful, meditative style, you know that his rendition of "I Love to See the Temple" is more than just a melody—it’s an experience. Originally released on his 2005 album Primary Worship, this arrangement has become a staple for pianists looking to bring a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere into their homes. Why This Arrangement Resonates
Paul Cardall is known for his "Peaceful Piano" style, characterized by delicate phrasing and a rich, cinematic sound. His take on this classic Primary song elevates the simple tune into a reverent instrumental masterpiece.
Unlike more traditional versions, Cardall’s arrangement often features:
Rich Harmonies: He uses the key of Db Major to provide a warm, resonant tone.
Dynamic Flow: The piece spans five pages, allowing for a gradual build and a gentle, reflective conclusion.
Versatility: While famous as a piano solo, it is also available for choral ensembles. Where to Find the Sheet Music
You can find official digital sheet music for this arrangement on several major platforms:
Musicnotes.com: Offers the Piano Solo version ($5.99) and the 2-Part Choir + Piano version. These downloads include interactive features like transposition and lifetime access via their app.
Hal Leonard: This song is featured in several of his published songbooks, such as The Hymns Collection and 40 Hymns for Forty Days.
PaulCardall.com: His official store often carries physical books and digital collections. Playing Tips for Pianists To capture that signature Cardall sound: I Love to See the Temple
Bringing the Sacred Home: Playing Paul Cardall’s "I Love to See the Temple"
There is a unique peace that settles into a room when the notes of a familiar hymn begin to drift from a piano. For many, "I Love to See the Temple" is more than just a childhood song—it is a cornerstone of faith and a reminder of the "covenant path". When you combine that message with the soulful, contemporary style of award-winning pianist Paul Cardall, the result is a musical experience that feels both deeply personal and profoundly sacred. The Arrangement: Simple Elegance
Paul Cardall is known for his ability to take classic melodies and infuse them with modern, peaceful energy. His arrangement of "I Love to See the Temple" from the Primary Worship album is a perfect example of this.
Difficulty Level: The arrangement is rated at a Difficulty Level One. It is accessible for intermediate players or dedicated beginners who want to master a piece that sounds much more complex than it is to play.
Musical Style: Originally published in Db Major, the piece features 5 pages of expressive, instrumental-only notation. It captures a "peaceful, expressive" tone similar to artists like Jim Brickman or Yiruma.
Key Features: Reviewers note it is a "beautiful piece to play and listen to," making it ideal for church services, personal devotion, or quiet reflection at home. Where to Find the Sheet Music
If you're ready to add this to your repertoire, you can find official, high-quality versions at the following retailers:
Musicnotes.com: Offers the Piano Solo arrangement as a digital download for $5.99. They also provide a 2-Part Choir + Piano version if you are looking for a vocal arrangement.
PaulCardall.com: The official artist site carries his full sheet music collection, ensuring you get the most accurate transcriptions of his recordings. Amazon
: For those who prefer physical books, this arrangement is included in The Hymns Collection by Paul Cardall , published by Hal Leonard. Why We Play It Because this is copyrighted material (Janice Kapp Perry
The original hymn, written by Janice Kapp Perry, was inspired by her mother's reverence for the temple. Paul Cardall's version honors that history while giving the melody a "modern-day" feel that resonates with listeners of all ages. Whether you are playing for a Primary program, a family gathering, or just for your own spiritual growth, this arrangement serves as a beautiful bridge between simple truths and sophisticated music.
The paper feels different under your fingertips.
It isn’t the slick, glossy sheen of a mass-produced pop songbook. It feels porous, almost organic—a heavy, cream-colored stock that seems to absorb the light of the room. This is the paper of Paul Cardall’s “I Love to See the Temple.” It doesn’t just hold music; it holds a history of silence.
If you were to look closely, not just at the notes, but into the texture of the page itself, you would find a story that begins long before the pianist ever touched the keys.
The Architecture of Stillness
The first thing you notice is the spacing. In much modern sheet music, the staves are cramped, a frantic chart of instructions designed to get you from point A to point B with maximum efficiency. But here, Cardall’s arrangement breathes. There is a vast, intentional loneliness between the treble clef and the bass.
This is the geography of Cardall’s style. Known for his "New Age" or meditative classical approach, he understands that the music isn't in the keys being struck, but in the split seconds of silence that follow. When you look at the opening measures—the simple, ascending G-major arpeggio—you see a staircase. It is an invitation.
For the pianist holding this sheet music, the story begins with a paradox: the hands must be relaxed to play the weight of the soul. The sheet music asks for a tenderness that is difficult to manufacture. It requires you to slow your heart rate to match the tempo marking: Slowly, reverently.
The Ghost in the Ink
If you trace the lineage of the melody back past Cardall’s arrangement, you travel back to 1980. You find Janice Kapp Perry, the composer of the original hymn. She wrote it for a Primary children’s songbook, a simple tune meant for untrained, trembling voices.
But look at what Cardall has done on this page. He has taken the innocence of a child’s voice and translated it into the maturity of an adult’s reflection.
In the sheet music, you see the "grace notes"—the tiny, ornamental notes that flutter before the main melody. These are not in the original hymn. These are Cardall’s tears. They represent the tremor in a voice when one is truly moved. They add a complexity that suggests that while the Temple (the subject of the song) remains the same, the person approaching it has changed. They are older now. They carry scars. The melody is the same, but the hands that play it are heavier.
The Turn of the Page
The climax of the story—both musical and emotional—arrives at the key change.
In the sheet music, this is a moment of visual upheaval. The comfortable landscape of sharps and naturals shifts. It is the musical representation of stepping from the mundane world into the sacred.
On the page, you see the density of the chords increase. The left hand is no longer just supporting; it is anchoring. It is the foundation of the building the song describes. The right hand climbs higher, reaching for something above the staff.
For the person playing this at home, perhaps late at night when the house is quiet, this section is a release. It is the musical equivalent of walking through heavy doors and leaving the noise of the street behind. The sheet music instructs the pianist to play with more feeling, but by that point, the ink is barely necessary. The fingers know the way home.
The Final Measure
The story concludes not with a bang, but with a fade. The sheet music ends with a "turn"—a swirling figure in the high register that dissolves into the sustain of the pedal.
On the final page, there is often a single, solitary whole note. A low G. It hangs in the air like the echo of a closing door.
To play this piece is to engage in a dialogue with the unseen. The sheet music is a map, but Paul Cardall drew it in such a way that the destination isn't a physical place. It is a memory.
When the music stops and your hands come to rest on your thighs, you realize the paper is just paper again. But for the duration of the song, you were the architect. You built the walls of serenity with your own two hands, guided by the quiet, steady hand of a man who learned to speak through the piano when his own heart was too full for words.
Most transcriptions are written in 4/4 with the instruction “Freely, with great expression” at the top. Unlike classical music where the beat is rigid, Cardall’s notation uses fermatas (holds) and breath marks. The sheet music is a skeleton; the performer must breathe like a vocalist.
This arrangement is notorious for 10th intervals (stretching an octave plus a third). If you have small hands, you will need to roll the chords or find an edited version. For example, a typical measure might require you to play a low Eb with your pinky and a G with your thumb simultaneously.
To play this sheet music authentically, you must understand the man. Paul Cardall was born with a severe congenital heart defect. He lived his entire life waiting for a transplant. When he plays "I Love to See the Temple," he isn't playing a Primary song. He is playing about the promise of a body made whole—a temple not of stone, but of flesh that is healed.
In 2009, Cardall received a life-saving heart transplant. Listen to his post-transplant recordings: they are more grateful, slower, and more tender. The sheet music you buy today reflects that post-transplant patience.
When you play his arrangement, remember that the silences (the rests) are as important as the notes. In Cardall’s world, the temple is a quiet place. Your piano should sound like a quiet room with high ceilings.