Matthew Harris : Shakespeare Songs, Book VI

Review: This collection is sixth in a series of musical settings of lyrics to songs in Shakespeare's plays. This grouping opens with When Daisies Pied, in a colorful madrigalian style, followed by the more ominous Fear No More, and concluding with the sprightly Where the Bee Sucks, There Suck I. Duration: ca. 7:30.

Songlist: Fear No More, When Daisies Pied, Where The Bee Sucks

Matthew Harris : Two Lorca Songs

Review: Two Lorca Songs are based on the first major work "Poema del Cante Jondo" (Poem of the Deep Song) of the famous Spanish poet Garcia Lorca. Las Seis Cuerdas was inspired by the poem's haunting melancholy. Sopranos and altos sing falling, weeping lines while underneath basses and tenors have wide guitar-like intervals. Crotalo, written for choral competition, is meant to display choral virtuosity. It is set as a flamenco: the percussive c's and t's from the repeated word "crotalo" make a rhythmical clicking like that of castanets.

Songlist: Crotalo, Las Seis Cuerdas

Matthew Martin : A Rose Magnificat

Review: Commissioned by The Gabrieli Consort and first performed on 8 June 2017 in St John's Smith Square, London, conducted by Paul McCreesh.

Matthew Martin : In the Midst of Thy Temple

Review: This six-minute anthem by Matthew Martin was commissioned by the Dean and Chapter of Westminster for a service held on 15th October 2019 to mark the 750th anniversary of the dedication of the Abbey Church of Henry III and first performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O'Donnell with Peter Holder (organ). The piece sets Latin and English text - the Angularis fundamentum (Christ is the sure foundation) (Anon 7th century), translated by. John Mason Neale (1818-1866) / Joseph Armitage Robinson (1858-1933), Dean of Westminster 1902-11. The work is scored for mixed choir with divisi, and the organ part is typical of Martin's inimitable style.

Matthew Martin : Missa Speravimus

Review: Co-commissioned by the Edington Festival of Music within the Liturgy and by Edward and Sarah Armitage to commemorate their 20th wedding anniversary. This Missa Brevis (short mass) was written at the request of Mr and Mrs Edward Armitage and the Edington Festival of Music within the Liturgy. The four movements are based on a single six-note phrase taken from the plainsong Te Deum laudamus (tonus simplex) bearing the text 'Speravimus in te.' This motif repeats many times in the chant but these words are used for its final appearance, ending the phrase 'O Lord, let thy mercy be upon us, as we have hoped in thee.' This miniature cell is used to create musical material in a variety of ways: inversion, retrograde inversion, augmentation, all these in combination, etc. It is also employed as a device to form the principal harmonic flavour. The Mass is designed for both liturgical and concert use. The Kyrie alludes to the Speravimus motif, with the Gloria more strictly developing its possibilities. The Sanctus and Agnus reuse and develop material from the Gloria and it is hoped, therefore, that the piece will be easily learned, practical and useful for regular performance.

Maurice Durufle : Quatre Motets sur des Themes Gregoriens, Op. 10

Review: Durufle's Four Motets on Gregorian Themes for SATB a cappella chorus, composed in 1960 and beloved by choruses around the world, appears in a fresh new edition with new music engraving and with historical introduction in English and English translation of the Latin texts. Includes the movements Ubi caritas, Tota pulchra es, Tue s Petrus, Tantum ergo.

Songlist: Ubi caritas, Tota pulchra es, Tue s Petrus, Tantum ergo

Max Reger : Sacred Songs for Mixed Voices

Review: 8 Sacred Songs for a cappella mixed choir (4-8 voices)

Songlist: Der Mensch lebt und bestehet nur eine kleine Zeit, Morgengesang "Du hoechstes Licht", Die Nacht ist kommen, d'rin wir ruhen sollen, Unser lieben Frauen Traum, In Gottes Namen fahren wir, Das Agnus Dei "O Lamm Gottes, Mit Gottes Hilfe sei unser Fahrt, Wir glauben an einen Gott

Maya Angelou : Like Dust I Rise - Mixed Voices

Review: "Like Dust I Rise" is a choral song cycle from the poems of Maya Angelou which can be performed separately or as a set. "Equality" - This contemporary gospel-style rouser denounces oppression and serves as a choral anthem for equal rights. A confident solo voice helps deliver a determined message in the unwavering words of Maya Angelou. "On the Pulse of Morning" - Angelou's audio recording of "On the Pulse of Morning" won a Grammy Award for "Best Spoken Word" in 1994. Mark Hayes opens with a resounding "See Me Rise" choral fanfare before presenting the hope-filled latter half of the poem with rhythmic exuberance. "Caged Bird" - A folk-like setting of Maya Angelou's empowering poem, which compares a bird's longing to be liberated with that of all people. Hayes chooses a minor key with plenty of harmonic tension and a walking tempo that suggests the footsteps of those who have come before. The final Picardy third is the ultimate symbol of freedom. "Still I Rise" - Maya Angelou's most popular poem about triumph over adversity comes brilliantly to life in this vivid setting by Mark Hayes. The bright shuffle tempo and bluesy piano riffs perfectly embody Angelou's strength, courage, and determination to rise above. One of the most uplifting choral selections of our time!

Songlist: Equality, On the Pulse of Morning, Caged Bird, Still I Rise

Melodie Tunney : Sacred A Cappella

Review: Melody Tunney is widely known for her sacred solo performances with husband Dick, and for their recordings and numerous producing projects including First Call, but Mel's arranging and writing talents far exceed even her singing! This extraordinary arrangement of "What Wondrous Love Is This' has been requested time and time again by singers out there who have watched her perform it! Arranged with an Alto Solo lead, which is signature Melody Tunney, 'Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne' is just stunning! Emotion packed and reverent, this stirring choral evokes worship. With some degree of ability required, and the majority of the parts divisi, this arrangement will be fun and challenging! Tunney continues her gorgeous arranging skills with a stunning a cappella setting of 'Holy, Holy, Holy.' Her contemporary style and brilliant use of harmonization makes this an unforgettable setting for worship of all style.

Songlist: Holy, Holy, Holy, Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne, What Child Is This?, What Wondrous Love Is This?

Melodious Accord - Alice Parker : Sweet Manna

Review: The 17 varied early American songs of praise found in songbooks published between 1790 and 1830 in "Sweet Manna" give us a glimpse of the musical life of the early settlers and the changing modes of Christian worship as the country developed. The rich variety of lyrics and tunes include cheerful gathering songs like "My God, the Spring of All My Joy;" slow, reflective moods as in "Deep Distress and Troubled Thoughts;" sprightly dances: "When Some Kind Shepherd from His Fold;" and joyous marches: "My Soul, Triumphant in the Lord." Fuguing tunes like "How Pleased and Blessed Was I" and "Through Every Age, Eternal God" release their energies; while more modal melodies like "Return, O God of Love, Return" shed a quiet grace. The mixed a cappella voices of MMA are strong and soaring, and these powerful songs are sung with spirit and feeling, and it is easy to imagine being in the congregations where they were first sung, joining in wonderful choruses of praise.

Songlist: Almighty Maker, God, My Thoughts, That Often Mount the Skies, When Some Kind Shepherd from His Fold, Ye Boundless Realms of Joy, How Pleased and Blessed Was I, From Deep Distress and Troubled Thoughts, What Is Our God, or What His Name, My Soul, Triumphant in the Lord, To God, in Whom I Trust, Hear Me, O Lord, nor Hide Thy Face, My Soul, the Great Creator Praise, How Short and Hasty Is Our Life, How Soft the Words My Savior Speaks, Through Every Age, Eternal God, Return, O God of Love, Return, My God! The Spring of All My Joys, Brethren, We Have Met to Worship

Melodious Accord - Alice Parker : Take Me To The Water

Review: The Musicians of Melodious Accord are a 16-voice professional chorus in New York City, offering recordings and concerts of many styles. Their conductor, Alice Parker, is internationally known as a composer, arranger, conductor and teacher, with a passion for true folksongs. "Take Me to the Water" is the command, request and plea (founded on John 4:14) made by those who seek the "well of water springing up into everlasting life." It serves as a unifying phrase for the powerful African-American spiritual songs in this collection, which come from the mid-19th century and earlier, from such sources as "Slave Songs," published in NY in 1867. 13 a cappella songs, sung with tremendous feeling, strength and sweetness by the MMA, from "I Know the Lord," "Come On Up to Bright Glory" and "Hush! Hush!" to "Free at Last," the title tune, and "Who'll Be a Witness." "Take Me" is a beautiful, inspirational collection!

Songlist: I Know the Lord, Stayed on Jesus, Come On Up to Bright Glory, Don't Be Weary, Traveler, Hush! Hush!, We WIll March Through the Valley, He Is King of Kings, Let Us Break Bread Together, Is There Anybody Here, Free At Last, Take Me to the Water, Cert'nly, Lord, Who'll Be A Witness

Meredith Monk : Nightfall

Review: Composed for Musica Sacra, Nightfall is an incantatory piece inspired by how light changes at the end of a day: the adding and subtracting of color and shadow; the slowly building and diminishing dynamics; the shifting texture as the sun intensifies and then disappears over the horizon.

Michael Barrett : All Is Well

Review: Uses: Advent, Christmas Scripture: Luke 2 David Angerman and Michael Barrett have combined to provide a new Christmas cantata seeking to blend traditional carols with some contemporary Christian seasonal selections. Designed for choirs of any size, this quickly learned cantata includes songs by Michael W. Smith, Keith Getty, Amy Grant, Point of Grace, and others. The accompaniment tracks available are produced with a fresh folk sound making the work both current and comfortable to all types of audiences. Optional obbligato instruments give thoughtful directors choices for acoustic instrumental additions if desired. The simple narration reminds us of the comfort and joy we have in the miracle of grace. Titles include: Prepare Ye the Way, O Savior of Our Fallen Race, Promises of Isaiah, Breath of Heaven, Here I Am to Worship, One King, Light of the Stable, All Is Well. Available separately: SATB, Listening CD, Preview Pack, Orchestration CD-ROM (Score & parts for Flute 1&2, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn 1&2, Piano, Synth., Acoustic Guitar, E. Bass, Percussion 1&2, Harp, Violin 1&2, Viola, Cello), StudioTrax CD, Split-Trax CD, 10-Pack CDs, RehearsalTrax CDs. Duration: ca. 37:00.

Songlist: Breath Of Heaven (Mary's Song), All Is Well, Prepare Ye The Way, O Come, All Ye Faithful, One King, Shout To The North, Here I Am To Worship (Light Of The World), Light Of The Stable, Promises Of Isaiah, O Savior Of Our Fallen Race

Michael John Trotta : For a Breath of Ecstasy

Review: This work draws texts from Love Songs, the anthology of celebrated American poet, Sara Teasdale (1884-1933), and was commissioned to celebrate the centennial of her winning the first Pulitzer Prize in Poetry in 1918.

Michael John Trotta : Seven Last Words (Septem Ultima Verba)

Review: This long-awaited major work is a seven-movement choral journey through the Passion, which delivers a powerful and captivating story encompassing a breathtaking palette of emotion, from intimate tenderness to majestic triumph. A rare gem, powerfully emotive and effective in both liturgical and concert settings. The work may be performed in either English or in Latin. Duration: 40 min.

Songlist: Father, Forgive Them, Today, You Will Be with Me, Behold Your Son<, I Thirst, My God, Why Have You Abandoned Me?, Into Your Hands I Surrender My Soul, It is Finished

Michael Tippett : Dance, Clarion Air (1952)

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Michael Tippett : Early One Morning

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Michael Tippett : Lilliburlero

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Michael Tippett : Over the Sea to Skye

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Mike Brewer : Banuwa - Three African Songs

Review: Banuwa is a vibrant collection that presents choirs with a terrific opportunity to experience the excitement and energy of African music. Building on the success of Hamba Lulu, this volume taps into the rich seam of African culture and includes the festive song 'Banuwa', alongside Zulu bird song 'Izintakana' and the South African wedding song 'Babevuya' - coupled here with the infectious 'Walamba'. The acclaimed Choral Programme Series provides a wealth of invaluable concert repertoire including works by Brahms, Holst, Bridge, Stamford, Warlock, Faure, Saint-Saens, Schubert and Schumann, as well as Christmas repertoire, gospel choruses, arrangements of folk songs and hits from the shows.

Songlist: Banuwa, Izintakana, Babevuya / Walamba

Mike Brewer : Oalla Mohololi - Three Songs From Africa

Review: Mike Brewer's Choral World Tour brings together traditional songs from around the world in exciting a cappella arrangements that will both challenge and stimulate your choir. Each piece is accompanied by a translation and pronunciation guide. In this collection, feel the pulsing rhythms of South Africa, experience the solid harmonies of a Namibian chorus, and experiment with the vocal techniques used in Tunisian song.

Songlist: Oalla Mohololi (Sotho ceremonial song from South Africa), Meguru (Kavango song from Namibia), Yelli bo'dek dhaya fikri (Love song from Tunisia)

Mike Brewer : Three Songs From Asia

Review: Mike Brewer's Choral World Tour brings together traditional songs from around the world in exciting a cappella arrangements that will both challenge and stimulate your choir. Each piece is accompanied by a translation and pronunciation guide. In this collection, feel the warmth of a Maori love song, experience intricate pentatonic part-song from China, and incorporate Bengalese percussion into your performance.

Songlist: Pokarekare, Holday danaa, Molihua

Milton Babbitt : Music For The Mass

Review: An early work by Milton Babbitt, it employs a rigorous contrapuntal style and demonstrates a stunning command of advanced compositional techniques including inverted counterpoint, juxtapositions of motifs and extreme chromaticism, yet remains eminently singable and melodic.

Songlist: Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus, Agnus Dei

Mollie Stone & Patty Cuyler : Traditional Choral Music From South Africa Vol 1

Review: Six South African songs for SATB or treble choir. Teaching DVD with voice parts, dance movements, pronunciation tracks and performances. Book includes tips for teaching and performing, pronunciation guide, background information for the songs and more. In addition to the book and teaching DVD is access to an online resource site with source recording downloads and video links.

Songlist: Mrs Galo, Mmamoshimane, Modimo rea go boka, Njengebhadi libhadula, Koloi ya Eliya, Ndandihlehi

Mollie Stone & Patty Cuyler : Traditional Choral Music From South Africa Vol 2

Review: Six South African songs for SATB or treble choir. Teaching DVD with voice parts, dance movements, pronunciation tracks and performances. Book includes tips for teaching and performing, pronunciation guide, background information for the songs and more. In addition to the book and teaching DVD is access to an online resource site with source recording downloads and video links.

Songlist: Likhon' ithemba lam, Re dibini, Ndisondela Kuwe, Swilo yini, Sesimfumene, Iindonga za Jeriko

Morgan Ames : Collection

Review: "When I'm 64" - This Lennon/McCartney favorite is as charming as ever! Bass primarily has a walking line, while the melody changes hands from the soprano to the tenor. "Don't Know Why" - A ballad of the 40's in block harmonies. The tempo is medium. "My Funny Valentine" - Classic ballad by Rodgers and Hart. This jazz arrangement features lush harmonies and many solo lines for all parts.

Songlist: When I'm Sixty-Four, My Funny Valentine

Morten Lauridsen : A Cappella Choral Compositions

Review: This collection of Lauridensen's aural artisanship contains hits such as "O Nata Lux," a serene a cappella motet celebrating the Redeemer, "Ubi Caritas Et Amor," a motet composed "in celebration and gratitude for the glorious and enduring service to God," as well as a setting of "Ave Maria" specially composed as a seventieth birthday gift to Maestro Salamunovich.

Songlist: O Nata Lux, Ave Maria, Ubi Caritas et Amor, Soneto de la Noche

Morten Lauridsen : Les Chansons Des Roses

Review: "Les Chansons des Roses" is a collection of compositions based on the poetry of Rainer Maria Rilke. Says Lauridsend of his selection: "(Rilke') poems on roses struck me as expecially charming, filled with gorgeous lyricism, deftly crafted and elegant in their imagery. There exquisite poems are primarily light, joyous and playful, and the musical settings are designed to enhance these characteristics and capture their delicate beauty and sensuousness."

Songlist: Dirait-on, Contre Qui Rose, De Ton Reve Trop Plein, La Rose Complete, En Une Seule Fleur

Morten Lauridsen : Lux Aeterna

Review: Each of the five connected movements in this choral cycle contains references to 'Light,' assembled from various sacred Latin texts. I composed Lux Aeterna in response to my mother's final illness and found great personal comfort and solace in setting to music these timeless and wondrous words about Light, a universal symbol of illumination at all levels - spiritual, artistic and intellectual. The work opens and closes with the beginning and ending of the Requiem Mass, with the central three movements drawn respectively from the Te Deum, O Nata Lux and Veni, Sancte Spiritus. The opening Introitus introduces several themes that recur later in the work and includes an extended canon on et lux perpetua. In Te, Domine, Speravi contains, among other musical elements, the cantus firmus Herzliebster Jesu (from the Nuremburg Songbook, 1677) and a lengthy inverted canon on fiat misericordia. O Nata Lux and Veni, Sancte Spiritus are paired songs, the former an a cappella motet at the center of the work and the latter a spirited, jubilant canticle. A quiet setting of the Agnus Dei precedes the final Lux Aeterna, which reprises the opening section of the Introitus and concludes with a joyful celebratory Alleluia. --Morten Lauridsen

Morten Lauridsen : Six Fire Songs

Review: THhe Six Fire Songs have been featured at major choral festivals around the world. Hailed by the Los Angeles Times as "stunningly crafted", the Madrigalli are unified by romantic references to fire in each of the poems. Characteristic Italian Rennaissance "madrigalisms" such as word painting, modality, bold harmonic shifts, intricate counterpoint and augenmusik occur throughout the cycle.

Songlist: Amor, Io Sento L'Alma, Ov'e Lass, Il Bel Viso?, Quando son piu Lontan, Io Pango, Se Per Favervi, oime, Luci serene e Chiare

Moses Hogan : Ain't That Good News

Review: The five spirituals contained within this collection have been edited directly from Moses Hogan's original a cappella settings to include accompanied arrangements for easy/medium SATB voicings. Great care has been taken to preserve the dynamic nuances, and the accompaniments reflect all of the harmonic and rhythmic stylings of the original a cappella settings.

Songlist: Ain't That Good News, Abide With Me, Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit, Lord, I Want To Be A Christian, God's Gonna Set This World On Fire

Moses Hogan : Feel The Spirit Vol 2

Review: With a foreward by Mormon Tabernacle Choir Director, Craig Jessop, this new collection of Moses Hogan originals and arrangements is a welcome addition to the first volume. Essential for every director's library it includes Certainly, Lord - Climbin' up the Mountain - Give Me That Old Time Religion - I'll Make the Difference (A Song of Hope for Singers Around the World) - Like a Mighty Stream - Music down in My Soul - Ride On, King Jesus and 28 more.

Songlist: Cert'nly Lawd, Clibin' Up the Mountain, De Blin' Man Stood On De Road An' Cried, Deep River, Give Me Jesus, Glory, Glory, Glory to the Newborn King, Hold On!, I Am His Child, I Got A Home in-a Dat Rock, I'll Make the Difference, Let the Heaven Light Shine on Me, Lift Every Voice for Freedom, Like a Mighty Stream, Mister Banjo, Music Down In My Soul, My God Is So High, No Hidin' Place, O Magnify the Lord, Old Time Religion, Reide On, King Jesus, Spiritual Reflection, A, Stand By Me, Surely he Died On Calvary, Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, There's a Man Goin' Round, We Shall Walk Through the Valley in Peace, Who Built the Ark?, You Better Min' How You Talk

Moses Hogan : Selections from Deep River

Review: Features 7spirituals as interpreted by acclaimed conductor and arranger Moses Hogan. "Moses Hogan provides a new voice for spirituals in America. His arrangements are exciting treatments that do not obscure the traditional essence of this music. His artistry as conductor, arranger and pianist is world-class!" - Craig Jessop, Director, Mormon Tabernacle Choir

Songlist: Hear My Prayer, Ride the Chariot, I Want To Be Ready, You Better Min' How You Talk, A Spiritual Reflection, Good News, The Chariot's Comin', We Shall Walk Through The Valley In Peace

Moses Hogan : Steal Away

Review: The inimitable Moses Hogan created stunning arrangements of many spirituals during his all too brief lifetime. In this new collection, seasoned church music arranger John Purifoy has edited five of Hogan's arrangements from their original multi-layered voicings to SATB with piano accompaniment, making them completely accessible to all sizes of choirs. Titles include Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel?, Down by the Riverside, Steal Away, Wade in the Water and We Shall Walk Through the Valley in Peace.Available separately: SATB, Preview CD and Preview Pak (one book and one Preview CD).

Songlist: Steal Away (Steal Away To Jesus), Wade In The Water, We Shall Walk Through The Valley In Peace, Down By The Riverside, Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel

Moses Hogan : Traditional Spirituals

Review: Moses Hogan's contemporary settings of spirituals, original compositions, and other works have been enthusiastically accepted by audiences around the globe and have become staples in the repertoires of high school, college, church, community and professional choirs everywhere. Here is a taste of some of his best work.

Songlist: The Battle of Jericho, Elijah Rock, Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit, God's Gonna Set This World on Fire, I Want To Thank You, Lord, I'm Gonna Sing 'Til The Spirit Moves In My Heart, Old Time Religion

Moses Hogan : Traditional Spirituals 2

Review: Moses Hogan's contemporary settings of spirituals, original compositions, and other works have been enthusiastically accepted by audiences around the globe and have become staples in the repertoires of high school, college, church, community and professional choirs everywhere. Here is a taste of some of his best work.

Songlist: Abide With Me, Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel, Down By The Riverside, Give Me Jesus, I Can Tell The World, I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray, I Got A Home In-a Dat Rock

Moses Hogan : Traditional Spirituals 3

Review: More of Moses Hogan's most exciting arrangements.

Songlist: I Know The Lord's Laid His Hands On Me, Ride On, King Jesus, Standing In Need Of A Prayer, There Is A Balm In Gilead, Jesus Lay Your Head In The Window

Mosie Lister : Canaanland Classics

Review: What a collection! Compiled by Gospel Music Hall of Fame songwriter Mosie Lister, who has a real heart both for gospel music and for the choir with limited resources. The format is Easy 2 Excel flexible, so choirs can either sing easy SATB or adapt the voicing to their own needs. Each arrangement is easy to learn yet fun to sin. Titles include I Should Have Been Crucified; I Bowed on My Knees and Cried 'Holy!'; Peace in the Midst of the Storm; Beyond the Cross; Canaanland Is Just in Sight; Do You Know My Jesus?; Faith Unlocks the Door; I Thirst; I Will Serve Thee; I'm Not Giving Up; Your First Day in Heaven; The Unclouded Day; Love Is Why; Keep on the Firing Line; Joy Comes in the Morning; and more.

Mosie Lister : Good Ol' Gospel

Review: Thirty-five all-time favorite gospel songs from award-winning composer Mosie Lister in one souvenir songbook. Includes historic photos, as well as stories behind several of his songs. Lister began his musical career as a singer, performing as an original member of the Sunny South Quartet before he was tapped by Hovie Lister to be the original baritone for the Statesmen. Lister soon gave up his professional singing career to devote his attention to writing, continuing to work as an arranger for the Statesmen. Lister was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall Of Fame in 1976 and into the SGMA Hall Of Fame in 1997.

Songlist: At the Crossing, Blow Your Trumpet, Gabriel, Come and See the Man, Down On My Knees, Good Old Gospel Singing, Goodby, World, Goodby, Happy Rhythm, Hard Trails Will Soon Be Over, He Knows Just What I Need, His Grace Is Sufficient For Me, His Hand In Mine, How Long Has It Been?, I Won't Turn Back, I'll Leave It All Behind, I'm Bound For The Kingdom, I'm Climbing Up The Mountain, I'm Feeling Fine, I've Been Changed, If You Believe, In The Arms Of Sweet Deliverance, It's Alright Now, Led By the Masters Hand, Nothing Can Compare, O What A Friend, Restore My Soul, The Gentle Stranger, The King and I, The Touch Of His Hand, The Way Of The Cross Led Me Home, Then I Met the Master, and more

Mosie Lister : Old Gospel Ship

Review: This collection features 15 songs of testimony, praise and thanksgiving in Easy 2 Excel Flexible format. Mosie Lister originals are joined with some best-loved gospel songs from other sources making this compilation an obvious choice for Sunday worship, revivals and camp meeting

Songlist: Step into the Water, The Lamb Has Overcome, Still Feelin' Fine, Child of the King, Gettin' Ready to Leave This World, Into My World, The Old Gospel Ship, The Song Rolls On, Sinner Saved by Grace, Castles in the Sand, God Is Able, The Sound of His Name, Jesus Will Hold My Hand, I've Been Adopted, The Haven of Rest

Nancy Wertsch : Shakespeare Suite

Review: The music here is meant to evoke the amorous thoughts and feelings of young lovers in Shakespeare's England. "It Was A Lover and His Lass" is a musical picture of a pair of happy young lovers meandering through the lush green countryside and enjoying the warmth of a spring day. It is obvious that these tow are a part of the total flowering spring. "Oh Mistress Mine" is a tender appeal by the young lover imploring his beloved to roaming and come to him. He employs various arguments to convince her that love should happen now and not later. His ardent desire is reflected in the music. However, at the end of the piece his love remains unrequited. In "Daffodils" there is so much youthful energy that it almost gets out of control. The key here is "tumbling." The whole piece goes in spurts and stops, with duddilly dum dum's and oo's containing little naughty thoughts here and there which can't say in words. All the chaos seems to come under control for awhile until the pent up energy bursts forth in "tumbling, tumbling, tumbling" and gleefully ends "as we go tumbling in the hay."

Songlist: It Was A Lover and His Lass, Oh Mistress Mine, Daffodils

Ned Rorem : Seven Motets For the Church Year

Review: Ned Rorem's 'Seven Motets for the Church Year' was commissioned by All Saints Episcopal Church in Ft. Laurderdale, FL, on the occasion of its 75th Anniversary. All seven movements are beautiful 4 part settings of Antiphons, to be used throughout the year.

Songlist: While All Things Were In Quiet Silence, Before the Morning Star Begotten, Lay Up For Yourselves, Praise Him Who Was Crucified, God Is Gone Up, Today the Holy Spirit Appeared, Rejoice We All in the Lord

New York Voices : A Cappella Arrangements

Review: The World War II classic, "I'll Be Seeing You", by Irving Kahal and Sammy Fain, evokes memories of the big band era, while staying in the a cappella realm. Rubato, mellow blends and dynamic shaping are keys to this Darmon Meader arrangement. It creates the melancholy feelings that are significant in time of war when loved ones are missed and longed for. A beautiful selection for the holidays and the New Year, as well as graduation. "Baby Driver" - Sheer, unbridled fun! For college or adult jazz chorus, this arrangement as sung by the New York Voices is a bit tricky, but well worth the effort. It features incredible harmony and rhythm and some a cappella sections, but the purpose of this piece is not to get technical-just to have fun! Four-part scat singing frames the piece on either end, while your baritone soloist goes to town (with great choral support) on each verse. Baby Driver, extracted from the New York Voices Songs of Paul Simon CD, is a toe-tappin', hand-clappin' jazz party. Invite everyone you know! The timeless Irish folk song "The Last Rose Of Summer" has been arranged by the renowned Darmon Meader of the group New York Voices. Simple unison and harmonies that respect the tune and lyric open then graduate to a more contemporary sound to add freshness without difficulty. A dream to teach and sing!

Songlist: I'll Be Seeing You, Baby Driver, The Last Rose Of Summer, Come Home

New York Voices : New York Voices Collection Vol 1

Review: NEW YORK VOICES is the Grammy Award winning vocal ensemble renowned for their excellence in jazz and the art of group singing. Like the great groups that have come before, such as Lambert, Hendrick and Ross, Singers Unlimited, Manhattan Transfer and Take 6, they have learned from the best and taken the art form to new levels. Written by Caprice Fox and arranged by Darmon Meader, New York Voices' A Cappella arrangement of 'Silence of Time' is a gorgeous rubato vignette for the mature vocal group. Intriguing harmonies and voicings give this arrangement its rich texture. In the tradition of jazz vocalese, Duke Ellington's 'Caravan' comes alive with new lyrics and additional new music. An exciting and challenging program selection for the more advanced vocal jazz ensemble. Heavily influenced by Chick Corea, 'The sultan Fainted,' a Darmon Meader/Peter Eldridge original, combines HIGH energy Brazilian rhythm with intricate harmonies and wacky lyrics! 'To Dare the Moon' incorporates lush voicings, alternating between samba and funk/rock grooves. Open solo sections add plenty of variety to this exciting original. 'Sign of Spring' is set in a Brazilian funk style. With an opening section in Portuguese moving to solos in English then dynamic chorus sections, this is one of the most exciting new charts we've seen. Very, very hip! The funk/rock song, 'National Amnesia,' by Darmon Meader has become very popular for the right reasons. Very hip voicings combine with a message that is right for today.

Songlist: Silence of Time, Caravan, The Sultan Fainted, To Dare The Moon, Sign of Spring, National Amnesia

New York Voices : New York Voices Collection Vol 4

Review: 'Overs' is an introspective beauty full of angular voicings and a poignant lyric. Peter Eldrige's arrangement of this excellent Paul Simon tune offers much solo opportunity, or if preferred, the piece can be performed as a group feature. 'Me and Julio' is another great NYV arrangement of a Paul Simon classic. 'Soon One Day' features an unusual a cappella opening into the dramatic solo as recorded by Caprice Fox on the recent Hearts of Fire album. Alternating solo and chorus sections build to an interesting shout section with influences of Gospel and African music. Auxiliary percussion and vocal sounds add to the impact in this exciting arrangement. A beautiful opening for mezzo soloist begins 'Now That The Love Is Over,' a funk/rock arrangement by Darmon Meader. This chart will put a real "kick" into your jazz group.

Songlist: Overs, Me and Julio, Soon One Day

New York Voices : New York Voices Collection Vol 5

Review: 'Way of the World' is the title track for the New York Voices Hearts of Fire album. A funk/rock setting of the rock classic, this arrangement features exciting voicings that really allow the featured soprano solo to soar! The classic A. C. Jobim bossa nova, 'Desafinado,' arranged by Darmon Meader, features both male and female solos interspersed with lush vocal textures. Instrumental solo space is also built into the arrangement. Also, written by A. C. Jobim, lyrics by Kim Nazarian and arranged by Darmon Meader, 'Modinha' is a haunting a cappella piece. It starts with a female solo building to a rich 4-part texture and winds down to a moody finish. A great a cappella moment in any concert.

Songlist: That's The Way of the World, Desafinado, Modinha

New York Voices : New York Voices Collection Vol 6

Review: The introspective ballad, 'Prelude / Interlude' gives solo opportunities for all voices, and a short ensemble section. A beautiful change of pace for your ensemble. 'Giant Steps' is an exciting Darmon Meader arrangement of the Coltrane Classic. Great soli sections will provide a welcome challenge for the ambitious choir. This Darmon Meader arrangement of the Duke Ellington classic, 'In a Mellowtone' combines the Ellington Big Band, Basie Big Band and Lambert, Hendricks and Ross versions. The arrangement features vocalese section for solo male and female as well as intricate backgrounds for the ensemble. The song builds to a dynamic shout chorus based on the Frank Foster/CBO arrangement. 'Cottontail' is a smokin' be-bop chart. This one just cooks, cooks and cooks from beginning to end. SSATB

Songlist: Prelude / Interlude, Giant Steps, In a Mellow Tone, Cotton Tail

New York Voices : Old Friends

Review: This new choral collection represents and celebrates the incredible cross-section of high-level artistry of the beloved New York Voices - the award-winning vocal jazz group the world has adored for nearly 30 years. Peter Eldridge, Lauren Kinhan, Darmon Meader, and Kim Nazarian have defined and raised the bar for jazz ensemble arranging and singing style and have influenced and inspired musicians, audiences, and music educators with every arrangement, workshop, and performance.

This collection includes personal photographs, historical notes regarding New York Voices, words of tribute from other well-known jazz musicians, and personal memoirs from each member. The songs range from traditional standards like "I'll Be Seeing You,", "Sing, Sing, Sing," and Ellington's "Bli-Blip," to contemporary classics from Paul Simon and a Peter Eldridge original. Now you can learn, sing, and enjoy these outstanding jazz vocal arrangements that have been crafted by the New York Voices.

Songlist: Baby Driver, Bli-Blip, Bookends, Come Home, I'll Be Seeing You, Me & Julio Down by the School Yard, Mother And Child Reunion, Old Friends, Sing, Sing, Sing, Smack Dab In The Middle, Why Don't You Write Me

New York Voices - Darmon Meader : Sing Paul Simon

Review: These Paul Simon classics has been dynamically arranged by Peter Eldridge and Darmon Meader and recorded by the venerable New York Voices. Smooth jazz vocals and solo lines play against a rhythmic percussion background making up these hot charts that were recorded on the CD New York Voices Sing the Songs of Paul Simon. For show choir or vocal jazz ensemble, this humorous and energetic arrangement features a Louisiana Cajun groove of "Why Don't You Write Me?," allows for a lot of solo lines interspersed with group vocals and includes a fun swing section as well. Fabulous! Piano accompanied.

Songlist: Mother and Child Reunion, Me & Julio Down by the School Yard, Loves Me Like A Rock, Why Don't You Write Me?

Nico Muhly : De Profundis

Review: De Profundis, composed by Nico Muhly with poetry by Charles Anthony Silvestri, was commissioned by The Choir of Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, directed by David Skinner, during the first Covid lockdown in the spring of 2020. It was a year and a half in the making, and was conceived during the dark months of Covid lockdown in the spring of 2020 when, for the first time in long history of the English Choral Tradition, choirs fell silent.

Songlist: De Profundis