Cliff Duren and David Wise : Spotlight A Cappella

Review: Hearing just one gifted voice sing an inspired piece of music can be a glorious, moving experience. Hearing it accompanied by musical instruments played by skillful musicians can be even more exciting. But...put together a group of exceptional Human Voices, joined in perfect harmony, skillfully arranged and executed, and a cappella music can take us to even greater heights of musical expression, soul-stirring emotion, and musical appreciation! 

The music in this book acts as a SPOTLIGHT illuminating the brilliance and exceptional qualities of the Human Voice, made even more brilliant and exceptional by virtue of the fact that these songs magnify and glorify God. SPOTLIGHT features a group of voices weaving a tapestry of sound and movement, textures and lyrics...spotlighting the Human Voice, yes, but even more significantly, spotlighting the One Who created those voices and gave us the gift of all music! 

Arranged by gifted arrangers Cliff Duren and David Wise (both of whom have their own special love of a cappella music!), SPOTLIGHT is both balanced and diverse in its content, including Hymns, Worship Songs, CCM Songs, Christmas and Patriotic Songs, being done in traditional a cappella styles and in the fresh, contemporary style of groups like Pentatonix.

Songlist: 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord), The Solid Rock, Hosanna with Hosanna (Praise Is Rising), How Deep the Father's Love for Us, God Is on the Move, Near the Cross, Christmas Medley, The Star-Spangled Banner

Cliff Owen : The Worship Mashups Collection - Choral Book

Review: Bringing you new and refreshing songs that are perfect for any worship service throughout the year, Cliff Duren has arranged and orchestrated this exceptional group of bold and powerful praise & worship songs into this unique, enlivening collection. The first of its kind, The Worship Mashups Collection takes your favorite, chart-topping worship songs and entwines them into 9 over-the-top, dynamically rich selections that your choir and congregation are guaranteed to love. With seamless transitions and complimentary lyrical themes, these mashups will not only sound meant-to-be, but they are sure to give you the perfect combination of praise, worship, reflection, and inspiration for any Sunday morning service. With 19 powerful songs in 9 incredible arrangements, The Worship Mashups Collection will be one of your favorite and most versatile resources yet!

Songlist: In Christ Alone with Cornerstone and The Solid Rock, Break Every Chain with Revelelation Song, Surrounded (Fight My Battles) with Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies), 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) with What a Beautiful Name, Ever Be with Tremble, Lamb of God with Resurrecting, Spirit of the Living God with Holy Spirit, The Stand with So Will I (100 Billion X), This Is Amazing Grace with Go, Tell It on the Mountain

Craig Hella Johnson : Considering Matthew Shepard

Review: Perhaps one of the most important major works of our time. The Chicago Tribune wrote: Moving among styles ranging from Lutheran hymnody to blues to Broadway, this modern-day Passion will move many listeners to tears even as it reaches beyond tragedy to peace, understanding and forgiveness. For the advanced choir looking to make an impact on students and community this is worth every bit of effort it requires.

Craig Hella Johnson : Considering Matthew Shepard: A Choral Suite

Review: The profound work Considering Matthew Shepard has been a major hit around the world. Telling the powerful story of Matthew Shepard through the healing power of music in a 105 minute dramatic rendering. Now, a concise 25 minute Suite is available. The same powerful message of love and gratitude permeates this abbreviated version. Singers and audience alike will experience the re-awakened and renewed power of this story and experience the love and compassion for one another, regardless of race, gender, orientation, or religion.

Songlist: All Of Us, Deer Song, Meet Me Here, The Innocence, Fire Of The Ancient Heart, Ordinary Boy, We Tell Each Other Stories

Craig McLeish : The Negro Speaks of Rivers

Review: Craig McLeish writes of The Negro Speaks of Rivers; Langston Hughes (1902-1967) was the first black American to earn his living from writing. He was an innovator of jazz poetry, becoming part of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s and 1930s. He wrote plays, short stories, novels, and his poetry was widely read. He was also a journalist, columnist and lecturer. The Negro Speaks of Rivers was perhaps his earliest published work, written when only 17 and while travelling by train to Mexico to visit his father. As the train crossed the Mississippi he suddenly began thinking about how rivers had impacted on Negro history, particularly in the fight against slavery. The four rivers mentioned in the poem lent themselves to using musical influences from those particular regions.

Songlist: I've Known Rivers, The Congo, The Euphrates, The Mississippi, The Nile

Dale Jergenson : Trichromat (Vocal Jazz Suite)

Review: This 3 movement Vocal Jazz Suite was inspired by many composers and arrangers of many dispirit styles of music - from the Baroque period through the most sophisticated, modern jazz era. The title 'Trichromat,' with each movement bearing a title involving a color, should not suggest that the composer "hears" music in colors, rather it pays homage to jazz titles in general with their frequent use of colors. Dale Jergenson currently serves as composer-in-residence for Cantori Domino and at St. Cyril of Jerusalem Church in Encino, California, and is active in writing scores for television, commericials, documentaries and feature films.

Songlist: Green Peace, Red Hot!, Blue Ice

Dan Forrest : Jubilate Deo

Review: Dan Forrest's Jubilate Deo brings to life the global aspect of the traditional Psalm 100 text, O be joyful in the Lord, all ye lands, by setting it in seven different languages and drawing from a wide spectrum of musical influences. Each movement combines some characteristics of its language-group's musical culture with the composer's own musical language. Movements include liturgical Latin, intertwined Hebrew and Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Zulu, Spanish, Song of the Earth (untexted), and a closing movement combining several of these languages with English. The result is a stunning global celebration of joy, as all the earth sings as one, omnis terra, jubilate! Scored for mixed choir with soprano and alto soli and optional treble choir, with three instrumentations available. Performance time 45-50 minutes. Commissioned and premiered by Henry Leck and the Indianapolis Children's Choirs, April 2016 Instrumentation options: - HMB269A: Full orchestra: (LARGE VERSION) Regular full orchestra (Winds 2.2.2.2, Brass 2/4.2.2.2, Harp, Percussion 1-2, Strings 4.4.3.3.2), plus optional instruments and/or digital keyboard. - HMB269B: Chamber ensemble: (SMALL VERSION) Organ, plus (solo instruments) flute, oboe, clarinet, horn, harp, percussion (two players recommended), violin, cello, plus optional instruments and/or digital keyboard. - HMB269C: Small orchestra: (MEDIUM VERSION) Combines the organ and solo winds from chamber ensemble version, with the string orchestra parts from the full orchestration, and the harp, percussion, and optional instruments and/or keyboard. *Harp, percussion, and all optional instruments are identical in all three versions. **Solo flute, oboe, clarinet, horn, and organ parts are identical in Chamber Ensemble (SMALL) and Small Orch (MEDIUM) versions. ***String orchestra parts (Vln1, Vln2, Vla, Cello, DB) are identical in Full Orch (LARGE) and Small Orch (MEDIUM) versions. Instrumental parts (with accompanying conductor's score) are available for rental only. Please contact rentals@hinshawmusic.com for more information.

Dan Forrest : Requiem for the Living

Review: Commissioned by the Hickory NC Choral Society for their 35th anniversary season. Scored for mixed choir with solos for boy soprano and/or mezzo-soprano, soprano and tenor, the instrumentation is available for large orchestra or chamber ensemble. Combining both liturgical and non-liturgical texts, in some cases the traditional texts are slightly re-arranged for contextual emphasis. This powerful five movement work projects a wide range of meaningful expression from a biting essay on the vanity and pain of existence, to a plea for mercy, and a celebration of eternal light. The work stands alone - but would be especially moving for all saints, Good Friday, or even Palm Sunday.

Dan Forrest : Te Deum

Review: From the pen of Dan Forrest comes the first Jubal House publication, Te Deum. Dan's three-movement setting is moving and inspiring. For fans of Dan Forrest, this will be a must have.

Darmon Meader : Aesop Tales

Review: Darmon Meader presents two favorite Aesop fable put to song. "The Tortoise and The Hare" starts slowly like the turtle, and ends quickly like the bunny! A fun challenge for any group, and enjoyable for all audiences. High School and above. The second SATB original setting of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" is a fun challenge and well worth the journey for any seasoned ensemble. With hilarious lyrics and Meader's New York Voices idiomatic jazz writing, this piece is sure to be a concert hit. WithÊThe Lion and the Mouse,ÊMeader completes his charming, jazz-infused Aesop's fables trilogy.ÊDo not overlook these charming pieces

Songlist: The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The Tortoise and The Hare, The Lion and the Mouse

Darmon Meader : Classic Jazz Songs

Review: Continuing our New York Voices Series, we present this hot new arrangement by Darmon Meader for the New York Voices. In the tradition of their charts, "Smack Dab in the Middle" is a slick arrangement and is full of fun and humor. The Big Band chart is also available! An excellent choice for any top-notch vocal jazz ensemble. "Bli-blip" - This quirky gem from Duke Ellington has been a staple from the jazz vocal group New York Voices for years and is an audience favorite. The tune is relatively simple and NYV member, Darmon Meader, turns it on its ear, creating a fantastic SATB arrangement. "Moonlight in Vermont" - Lush, contemporary jazz harmonies and styles define this arrangement with each vocal line featured as if they were soloists. Chord symbols are included for the accomplished jazz pianist but the realized piano part is worthy of any player. This is a swing ballad that will leave your audience breathless.

Songlist: Smack Dab in the Middle, Sing, Sing, Sing, Bli-blip, Moonlight in Vermont

Darmon Meader : Jazzy Folk Songs

Review: "Skye Boat Song" - Originally commissioned for several combined choirs, this arrangement is a modern interpretation of the classic Scottish folk song with Darmon Meader's updated harmonic and rhythmic sensibilities. Though treated with a more modern approach, a traditional choir will find this piece to be very approachable as they explore the more intricate, lush harmonies for which Darmon has become well-known contest and festival approved! "That Ever I Saw" - "She is gentle and also wise; of all other she beareth the prize, that ever I saw, to hear her sing, to see her dance!" is a delightful anonymous text, stunningly set in a soft, romantic song by Darmon Meader. This choral work will soon find its way into the repertoire of a cappella treble choirs everywhere. "The Water Is Wide" - Darmon Meader's arrangement of this well-known folk song expertly blends lyricism with jazz. Gorgeous harmonies and solo opportunities abound in this sure-to-please choral. "Shenandoah" - One of the most beautiful of all American Folk Songs is given a restored, classy setting by the very gifted director and arranger of the New York Voices ensemble, Darmon Meader. Skillfully balancing unison passages with satisfying fourpart textures, Meader's a cappella version of this well-known melody is a wonderful concert choice for a good high school or college choir.

Songlist: Skye Boat Song, That Ever I Saw, The Water Is Wide, Danny Boy, Shenandoah

Darmon Meader : Vocal Jazz Classics

Review: The swinging Rodgers and Hart tune "I Could Write a Book" is classic vocal jazz. Includes a scat solo, which is written out or can be sung ad lib. The singers are definitely the stars here, though the arrangement can be done with a variety of accompaniments: piano alone, small instrumental combo, or full jazz ensemble. With "Do Nothin' Till You Hear from Me" Darmon adds his vocal jazz touch to Duke Ellington's classic. The lazy, medium swing tempo is just right, and the full-sounding piano accompaniment supports the voices. A breathtaking New York Voices arrangement of the touching ballad "For All We Know", recorded on their CD A Day Like This. The piano accompaniment is stunning and the vocal writing is contemporary. Definitely a great choice for accomplished groups to demonstrate their skill.

Songlist: I Could Write a Book, Do Nothin' Till You Hear from Me, On a Clear Day, For All We Know

Darmon Meader : Vocal Jazz Love Songs

Review: "Love Is Here to Stay" was the last one written by George Gershwin before his untimely death at the age of 39. New York Voices' Darmon Meader has arranged it in a classic a cappella vocal jazz style, with surprisingly little divisi for such a full-sounding arrangement. An extraordinary song, an extraordinary arrangement. Darmon takes a swinging approach to "Taking a Chance on Love", with a tight vocal arrangement accompanied by piano or optional jazz trio. Clever lyrics make it a real audience pleaser, and your singers will appreciate the masterly vocal writing. Vocal jazz groups: don't miss it. "I Can't Believe That You're in Love with Me" was recorded by New York Voices on their Sing, Sing, Sing album.

Songlist: I Can't Believe That You're in Love with Me, Taking A Chance On Love, Love Is Here to Stay

Daryl Runswick : Five English Folksongs

Review: From the Faber Choral Programme Series. Each volume presents a group or groups of compatible pieces designed to form the basis of a "block" within a choral concert program. Imaginative, versatile and a wonderful addition to SATB concert repertoire.

Songlist: Bobby Shafto, Dance To Your Daddy (Dance To Thy Daddy), The Frog And The Crow, Scarborough Fair, She Moved Through The Fair

Dave Brubeck : They All Sang Yankee Doodle

Review:

David Blackwell / Andrew Carter (Edited by) : In the Mood

Review: In the mood is an anthology of choral arrangements of seventeen classic popular songs by great names such as Fats Waller, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, and Richard Rogers. All the pieces are expertly arranged to suit the needs of amateur SATB groups looking for lighter popular repertoire -- school choirs, youth schoirs, or chamber choirs of any description. There's a mixture of accompanied and unaccompanied numbers, and a variety of styles: smoky blues, up-tempo sat, sentimental swing, exuberant Dixieland, sophisticated close-harmony, plu an opulent show-stopper or two like 'Somewhere over the rainbow'.

Songlist: Ain't Misbehavin', Autumn Leaves, Begin the Beguine, Blue Moon, The Continental, Deep Purple, I Got Rhythm, Laura, Let's Do It (Let's Fall in Love), Over the Rainbow, She Was Beautiful, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, Summertime, 'S Wonderful, Tea For Two, Night and Day, In the Mood

David Hill : Novello Book of Short and Easy Anthems

Review: Featuring 28 anthems that can be learnt and sung quickly, The New Novello Book Of Short & Easy Anthems gives Upper Voice choirs a grand selection of songs that will prevent a reliance on the same ones. Whether your choir is large or small, the music contained within this collection is perfect for beautifully versatile melodies that can be learned very easily.

David Hill : The Novello Short Anthems Ð Collection 1

Review: A two-volume collection of short anthems from the Novello Choral Programme, representing five hundred years of church music, all suitable for SATB chorus with keyboard. Familiar and long-established works are represented alongside many lesser-known and more recent works by composers such as Douglas Guest, Philip Rose and Ralph Allwood. Many of the pieces are ideal as Introits and Anthems for general church use, whilst other have a more specific intended function within the liturgical calendar. However, all are well suited to both devotional and concert performance. The works here are short, ranging from straight-forward to technically challenging and more exciting. As a whole, the collection features an overwhelming number of choices for choirs of all different sizes and abilities.

Songlist: Jesu Dulcis Memoria, Cantate Domino, Crucifixus, Dominus Illuminatio, For The Fallen, God So Loved The World, I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes, View Me, Lord, Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring, Lead me, Lord, Litany To The Holy Spirit, Long Since In Egypt's Plenteous Land, O Come, Ye Servants Of The Lord, O Taste And See, Oculi Omnium, Sanctus, Thou Knowest, Lord, Three Introits, Ave Verum Corpus K.618, Almighty And Everlasting God, If Ye Love Me Keep My Commandments

David McKay (edited and arranged) : Madrigal/Glee Anthology

Review: A classic collection for three part treble voices

Songlist: Invitation To The Singing School, The Singing Lesson, Come Sing This Round With Me, Serene And Mild, Good Morning, We Are Noddin', Ye Spotted Snakes, Flow, O My Tears, Come Again Sweet Love, Yes! To The Work, See, The Conquering Hero Comes, O'er The Waters

David Mooney : Irish Choral A Cappella Series

Review: David Mooney's stunning arrangements of Irish traditional music were an instant success. As head of music department of the Conservatory of Music and Drama at Dublin Institute of Technology, Mooney is well known in Ireland and the UK where his arrangements have appeared on record, TV and radio. Those items which can be sung only in Irish Gaelic have an English text transliteration underlaid, and a complete IPA pronunciation guide as well as an English translation in the front matter. All items in these pieces are appropriate for multicultural concert occasions, and are of moderately easy to moderate difficulty.

Songlist: Oro, 's e do bheatha 'bhaile, Silent, O'Moyle, The Coulin, The Salley Gardens, My Lagan Love, Roisin Dubh

David Willcocks : A Ceremony of Psalms

Review: The work comprises three choral movements interspersed with two movements for the soloist. The psalms chosen reflect the emotional range of the Book of Psalms, for they voice joy and sorrow, thanksgiving and despair, penitence and faith, and hope and love. Two of the choral movements are published separately: O Sing Unto the Lord; O Praise God.

David Wordsworth (editor) : The Novello Shakespeare Choral Collection

Review: Music played an enormous role in the works of William Shakespeare, while his own sonnets, poems and soliloquies have provided continuing inspiration for many composers through the years. The Novello Shakespeare Choral Collection, inspired by the 400th anniversary of the Bard's death in 2016, is an exciting anthology of choral works that are settings of Shakespeare's words. For choirs of all types and abilities, this collection has been edited by David Wordsworth so that all the pieces are fantastic both to sing and hear. The collection features some beautiful settings that have well and truly stood the test of time. These songs truly are a joy to perform, with some relatively simple arrangements that are purely fun to sing, while some more complex settings that will be thoroughly rewarding for choirs and audiences alike. The Novello Shakespeare Choral Collection is an essential anthology of stunning settings of beautiful words which will be performed and enjoyed for many years to come.

Songlist: Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind, Hymn For Shakespeare's Birthday, Lo, Here, The Gentle Lark, O, How Much More, Four Rounds To Shakespeare Texts, It Was A Lover And His Lass, Tell Me Where Is Fancy Bred, Who Is Silvia?, Rosemary, If We Shadows Have Offended, Be Not Afeard, Shall I Compare Thee To A Summer's Day?, How Sweet The Moonlight Sleeps, Weary With Toil, I Haste Me To My Bed, Ophelia's Lament, Sigh No More, Ladies, A Summer Sonnet, Orpheus With His Lute, Light Thickens, Fear No More, Fear No More, Look In Thy Glass, Orpheus, Daffodils, O Mistress Mine, Full Fathom Five

Deke Sharon : A Cappella Jazz Standards Vol 1

Review: This collection features five-part arrangements of your favorite jazz standards. Most are SATB plus solo, but "Autumn Leaves" is five luscious parts.

Songlist: Autumn Leaves, Fever, I Could Write A Book, If I Loved You, It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing), Steppin' Out With My Baby, Walkin' My Baby Back Home

Deke Sharon : A Cappella R&B

Review: The number one Temptations R&B classic "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" makes for a great closer or encore, and will have your audience clapping along. The melody sits in a perfect range to be sung by any voice parts (bass can be sung an octave lower), and with 4 verses it's a great opportunity for a shared solo. A soulful tenor solo soaring over rhythmic four part harmonies brings the Marvin Gaye Motown classic "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" to life. A perfect mid-set song to show off your group's ability to groove. "September" - Just four parts, but sounds like a dozen! The melody skips from part to part as the other voices playfully recreate Earth Wind and Fire's horns, guitars, bass, keyboards... everything but the costumes! NBC's sensational singing competition The Sing-Off continued its popularity again in 2011 with an exuberant celebration of the Lionel Richie #1 hit from 1983. Mesmerizing vocal grooves combine with solos and duets to create a joyful showcase for all types of vocal ensembles!

Songlist: Ain't Too Proud To Beg, I Heard It Through the Grapevine, September, All Night Long (All Night)

Deke Sharon : A Cappella Songbook 3 - I Feel Good

Review: The third in the popular series features accessible standards as well as more challenging arrangements. The former includes "I Feel Good," "Faith," "My Girl," "Unchained Melody" and "Wonderful Tonight." Then there's "Bohemian Rhapsody" - in four parts! - Boyz II Men's "Thank You," The House Jacks' "Gone" and Rockapella's "Change In My Life." SATB with notes for TTBB and SSAA performance.

Songlist: Bohemian Rhapsody, Change In My Life, Faith, Gone, I Feel Good, My Girl, Thank You, Unchained Melody, Wonderful Tonight

Deke Sharon : Best of NBC's The Sing-Off Vol 2

Review: "Use Somebody" was the opening number of Season 2 of NBC's The Sing-Off, this 2009 #1 hit by Kings of Leon arranged for the combined vocal groups creates a mesmerizing texture of sound, with a world-beat vocal groove, compelling lyrics and riveting modulations that will absolutely astonish your audience. "I've Got the Music in Me" - This 1970s tune originally recorded by Kiki Dee reaches a new level in this a cappella rendition! Guaranteed to get both the choir and the audience moving! "With A Little Help From My Friends" - This soulful "vocals only" setting of the Lennon & McCartney classic in a style reminiscent of Joe Cocker's famous rendition offers a powerful, uplifting message to today's choirs and audiences.

Songlist: I've Got the Music in Me, With A Little Help From My Friends, Use Somebody

Deke Sharon : CASA Songbook Vol 4 - Shout

Review: Deke's extensive collection of SATB, four-part arrangements covers a lot of ground: the early days of rock & roll with the Everly Brothers' 'When Will I Be Loved,' through Queen's 'Crazy Little Thing Called Love,' through 90s hit 'Sign Your Name.'

Songlist: Sign Your Name, (Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay, Turn The Beat Around, When Will I Be Loved?

Deke Sharon : Contemporary A Cappella Songbook I

Review: Designed to be introductory primers for high school or other beginning groups, the Contemporary A Cappella Association Songbooks nonetheless adhere to a fine musical standard (unlike some beginning arrangements, which can be watered down and unsatisfying). There are informative performance notes and recommendations for transposing parts, to permit performance by all male or female ensembles. In addition, a discography suggests definitive recordings of these popular songs, which can help facilitate the learning process and educate the ear. Easy to use, the CASA songbooks are an excellent resource.

Songlist: Good Old Acapella, Under the Boardwalk, In the Still of the Nite (I'll Remember), Only You (And You Alone), Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back), Silhouettes, The Longest Time, Up On The Roof, Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye, Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight

Deke Sharon : Contemporary Pop Hits

Review: The Van Morrison classic "Brown Eyed Girl" is accessible for newly formed a cappella groups, and satisfying for more experienced ensembles. The modern day classic "True Colors" has been a huge hit for both Cyndi Lauper and Phil Collins. Now it's your turn! "Be True To Your School" is perfect for pep rallies, sporting events and school assemblies, the breakdown in this arrangement gives your singers a chance to get everyone in the bleachers chanting and clapping along. Rah Rah Sis Boom Bah! The little gem "Autumn Leaves" is perfect for your fall concert. Lush rubato chords roll through most of the song, but the bridge is a snappy up tempo wake-up call. "Superman (It's Not Easy)" - At last, a song for your mixed ensemble that wants to sing 21st century music in the college a cappella style! This ballad by Five For Fighting features a high, light tenor solo singing about that common young adult sentiment, "it's not easy to be me." First performed by The Persuasions and popularized by The Nylons, "Good Old A Cappella"``` is an a cappella classic!

Songlist: Be True To Your School, True Colors, Superman (It's Not Easy), Brown Eyed Girl, Good Old A Cappella

Deke Sharon : Latin A Cappella Vol 1

Review: With music from Latin America growing in popularity, here is a fun way to integrate an important cultural phenomenon into your program. This collection of four traditional songs, arranged for contemporary a cappella groups, represent but four of the many Latin musical styles: from Mexico, mariachi (Cielito Lindo), bolero (Sin Ti) and Latin rock (La Bamba), and from Cuba, Son (Guantanamera). SATB

Songlist: Cielito Lindo, Guantanamera, Sin Ti, La Bamba

Deke Sharon : Pitch Perfect for Mixed Voices

Review: The film Pitch Perfect presents the world of collegiate a cappella groups with a comedic flair and musical sassiness that your pop ensembles will love to recreate! Whether a cappella or accompanied, here is the Bellas' terrific mash-up, including: Don't You (Forget About Me), Give Me Everything (Tonight), Price Tag. The irresistible break-out hit "Cups" by Anna Kendrick has a sweet folky flavor and the fun "cup" accompaniment will be a hit with your choir! Now crossing over to YouTube and mainstream radio, the song is getting major attention in the media. May be performed a cappella or accompanied. Kelly Clarkson's mega hit "Since U Been Gone" rocks out in this a cappella rendition!

Songlist: Since U Been Gone, Cups, Bellas Finals

Deke Sharon : Pitch Slapped

Review: From the Lifetime TV reality show Pitch Slapped, one of the groups competes with this hot vocals-only arrangement of the B-52's pop hit "Love Shack". Funky and fun! Pink's number one hit "So What" rocks out in the all-vocal setting featured on the Lifetime TV reality series Pitch Slapped. A sizzling rock setting that turns a cappella on its head! The ballad "Beneath Your Beautiful" from British artists Labrinth and Emeli Sande makes an emotional and romantic duet with vocal back-up. An accessible and appealing change of pace for choral concerts of all types.

Songlist: Love Shack, So What, Beneath Your Beautiful

Deke Sharon : Pop Hits for Mixed Voices, Vol. 2

Review: Let your students express themselves with 'Drive,' the 90s "soft metal" hit by Incubus. In the collegiate a cappella style, this song brings a message of self-empowerment: "When I drive myself my light is found." This arrangement is challenging rhythmically, giving your advanced students a lesson in syncopation they will relish. Originally published in the collection Jazz Standards, 'Autumn Leaves' is perfect for your fall concert. Lush rubato chords roll through most of the song, but the bridge is a snappy up tempo wake-up call. Maroon5's mega-hit, 'This Love,' is arranged in the collegiate a cappella style, but worth the effort for high school ensembles.

Songlist: Drive, This Love, Autumn Leaves

Deke Sharon / Anne Raugh : Contemporary A Cappella Songbook II

Review: Designed to be introductory primers for high school or other beginning groups, the Contemporary A Cappella Association Songbooks nonetheless adhere to a fine musical standard (unlike some beginning arrangements, which can be watered down and unsatisfying). There are informative performance notes and recommendations for transposing parts, to permit performance by all male or female ensembles. In addition, a discography suggests definitive recordings of these popular songs, which can help facilitate the learning process and educate the ear. Easy to use, the CASA songbooks are an excellent resource.

Songlist: The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Blue Moon, It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yestersay, Sixty Minute Man, It's Alright, Stand By Me, Why Do Fools Fall In Love?, Li'l Red Riding Hood, My Home, Good Lovin'

Dominick Argento : A Nation of Cowslips

Review: A set of seven choral pieces based on whimsical doggerel verses by John Keats. Published as separate movements in 1969, this work is now available as a complete set for the first time.

Songlist: The Devon Maid, In Praise Of Apollo, On Visiting Oxford, A Party Of Lovers At Tea, Sharing Eve's Apple, There Was A Naughty Boy, Two Or Three Posies

Dominick Argento : Cenotaph

Review: Dominick Argento's Cenotaph was the American Choral Directors Association's Raymond W. Brock Memorial Commission for its 2009 national convention in Oklahoma City. A cenotaph is defined as a monument to someone buried elsewhere, and the cenotaphs found in America-and indeed across the world-have inspired Argento's writing. This newly-commissioned work uses a collage of textual sources, and employs the composer's signature harmonic language and melodic beauty. From the initial muted rumblings of a crowd awaiting a parade to the broad a cappella textures of its internal movements, Cenotaph commemorates those who have given their lives for their countries, no matter what that country happens to be.

Dominick Argento : Everyone Sang

Review: Pulitzer Prize winning composer Dominick Argento displays a natural dramatic impulse with this 4 1/2 minute piece for double mixed chorus a cappella.

Songlist: Everyone Sang

Dominick Argento : I Hate and I Love

Review: Contents: I hate and I love - Let us live, my Clodia, and let us love - Greetings, miss, with nose not small - My woman says she will be no one's - Was it a lioness from the mountains of Libya - You promise me, my dearest life - Wretched Catullus, put an end to this madness - I hate and I love.

Songlist: I HATE AND I LOVE, LET US LIVE, MY CLODIA, AND LET US LOVE, GREETINGS, MISS, WITH NOSE NOT SMALL, MY WOMAN SAYS SHE WILL BE NO ONE'S, WAS IT A LIONESS FROM THE MOUNTAINS OF LIBYA, YOU PROMISE ME, MY DEAREST LIFE, WRETCHED CATULLUS, PUT AN END TO THIS MADNESS

Dominick Argento : Peter Quince at the Clavier

Review:

Dominick Argento : Seasons

Review: Texts by Pat Solstad. In four movements:

Songlist: Autumn, Winter, Spring, Summer

Dominick Argento : The Masque of Angels Suite

Review: Argento has crafted a five-movement suite from his 1964 opera The Masque of Angels. Designed as a mini choral drama, it includes a Processional for the angels; the well-known Gloria; the colorful Arrival of the Archangels; a majestic Sanctus; and a joyful Recessional. Best for larger ensembles, this suite is a showcase for magnificent choral sound. Orchestra parts are available on rental.

Dominick Argento : Walden Pond

Review: Written for the 25th anniversary of the Dale Warland Singers, Walden Pond employs excerpts of Henry David Thoreau's transcendentalist text in five movements. 25 minutes. Instrumental parts available separately (HL48020840).

Don Besig : Journey to the Light

Review: From the veteran writing team of Don Besig and Nancy Price, we present what is sure to become an Advent tradition. Assembled from some of their best-selling anthems, this helpful collection is a splendid resource for your seasonal programming. Whether performed individually or as a mini-cantata, your choir will resonate with the simple messages of hope, peace, love and joy! This compilation can accompany your candle lighting each week to help create precious moments of reflection as you experience the journey of Christmas.

Songlist: Will We Know Him?, Waiting for the Light!, O Come, Emmanuel, A Little Child Will Come to Lead Us, When Emmanuel Has Come, Candles of Advent

Don Besig and Nancy Price : Unaccompanied Sacred Songs

Review: There is nothing more enjoyable than singing one of Don Besig and Nancy Price's a cappella anthems; pure joy with an excellent message of faith. Their lyric approach to this happy choral will warm your group and you'll be ready for performance in only a few practices. Delightful! "Wake up, world! Hear the wonderful story..." What a happy, spirited anthem! This contemporary spiritual from the team of Nancy Price and Don Besig is an a cappella offering for your Easter service. Easily learned, the joyful refrain could even be taught to the congregation. Refreshing and memorable, Hallelujah, Sing with Glory! is positively a song of great joy! "Waiting For The Light!" will draw your congregation in closer with the intimacy of unaccompanied singing. The minor color of this attractive octavo adds a touch of mystery to the preparations for Christ's arrival. Effective word painting with well-placed silences gives the thoughtful choir director ample opportunities for drama through interpretation. The impeccable part-writing makes Waiting for the Light! a sure success for your ensemble. Beautifully done. "Glory To God!" is sure to be a favorite with your choir and congregation. Light and spirited, this a cappella anthem captures the almost giddy feeling of joy and excitement the shepherds must have felt once they recovered from their angel visitation. Glory to God! brings infectious glad tidings of great joy to your church and to all people!

Songlist: Hallelujah, Sing With Glory!, Waiting For The Light!, Sing Out The News, Listen To The Angels Sing, We've Got Good News To Tell!, Glory To God!

Don Jamison : Far Heaven: Songs and Tunes for Chorus and Small Groups

Review: Intended as a 'community songbook, with music written for several connected circles of singers in Vermont' (including Village Harmony). The book, which is accompanied by a disc with recordings of all of the compositions, includes twenty-five of Don Jamison's beloved and imaginative compositions. Jamison has divided his highly-singable and fascinating choral pieces into three sections: shape-note-inspired tunes, three-part songs, and four- and five-part songs. The title of both the book and the first song comes from Isaac Watts' text: 'Far in the heavens my God retires:/ My God, the mark of my desires,/ And hides his lovely face.' Many of the songs, the composer writes in his introduction, 'have to do with a search for God - or the spiritual world more broadly - and a right relationship with nature and the cosmos. Sometimes when I listen to music, and, more often, when I make music, the world seems to reveal a little more of what it really is - and relationships feel clear and direct, and "heaven" not so far away at all'

Songlist: Shape Note Inspired Tunes, Far Heaven, Cabin Hill, Owen Sound, North Street, Kingdom, Sweet Brother Weed, Mission Farm, Jackson Heights, Three-Part Songs, Sometimes, Night Song, Spring and Fall, Stars, Ubiquity, How Long?, Autumn Carol, Three Restless Songs, Four and Five-Part Songs, Inversnaid, Pied Beauty, Measure of the Stars, Mother Root, Falling, Notes on The Music

Dr. Richard Cox : The Choral Music of Benjamin Britten: A Conductor's Guide

Review: This book by Dr. Richard Cox explores Benjamin Britten's vast choral repertory describing salient features of each work and assessing its accessibility. (260 pages.)

Dwight Bigler : Three Appalachian Songs

Review: These classic early American folk songs Cluck Old Hen, Poor Wayfarin' Starnger, and Sourwood Mountain are beautifully set for band and chorus in this appealing concert suite. Arranged with various performance options available, these songs may be performed individually as well as together in a suite format. In addition, these can be performed with band alone, chorus and piano alone, or with combined groups. Recorded by the Virginia Tech Choirs and Symphonic Wind Ensemble, conducted by Dwight Digler - Moss Arts Center, Virginia Tech, March 26, 2017.

Songlist: Cluck Old Hen, Poor Wayfarin' Starnger, Sourwood Mountain

E.J. Moeran : Songs of Springtime

Review: Seven Elizabethan poems set for unaccompanied SATB chorus.

Songlist: Love Is A Sickness, Spring, Goof Wine, Sigh No More, Ladies, The River God's Song, The Sweet Spring, To Daffodils Farrar, Ernest, Under The Greenwood Tree

Ed Lojeski : Missa Americana

Review: Combining the classical Mass form with American musical styles, Missa Americana joins together both old and new. This innovative combination allows the work to be performed in both church and concert settings. Incorporating English and traditional Latin texts, Missa Americana is set for mixed choir and soprano and tenor soli with orchestral or organ accompaniment. Movements: Introit and Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Offertory (text from Psalm 138), Sanctus and Benedictus, Agnus Dei (based on American hymn tune).

Songlist: Agnus Dei, Gloria, Sanctus, Credo, Introit And Kyrie, Offertory