Michael Barrett : Sing Joy! Make a Beautiful Noise!

Lightly contemporary in style, this easily-learned praise anthem is an energizing call to worship. The convenient voicing and rhythmic drive make this an excellent selection for youth choirs or smaller ensembles.

Uses: Christmas, youth, praise team Scripture: Matthew 2:10, Psalm 30, Thessalonians 5:16-18 Following the success of Celtic Advent Carol, Michael Barrett returns with a sequel sure to bring that special sound back to your sanctuary. Using a well-known Celtic folk song as the melodic basis, the arranger infuses the piece with a lilting joy perfect for a Christmas service or program. Unforgettable! Also available: Orchestration and StudioTrax CD.

Country: Ireland

Uses: General, Call to Worship, Youth Choir Scripture: Psalm 5:11; Psalm 72:18-19; Psalm 113:1-3 This sprightly, good-natured piece is an energizing acclamation of praise. The SAB voicing is perfect for the spirit of the anthem, and the joyful, rhythmic approach is a great choice for a call to worship.

Uses: General, Call to Worship, Youth Choir Scripture: Psalm 5:11; Psalm 72:18-19; Psalm 113:1-3 This sprightly, good-natured piece is an energizing acclamation of praise. The SAB voicing is perfect for the spirit of the anthem, and the joyful, rhythmic approach is a great choice for a call to worship.

A deeply emotional work, Absalom, My Son attempts to capture the unnatural feeling of a parent losing a child. Challenging, and containing a myriad of soundscapes created by the composer, this work is still highly melodic and approachable. For advanced high school choirs and above.

Here is the much anticipated follow up to Michael Barrett's smash hit African Advent Carol. Hear the morning break forth with a joyous affirmation that the music of light will shine in our lives forever. Incorporating the traditional South African tune Siyahamba, this amazing choral will be an unforgettaable song for post-Christmas services or for any time of the year when joy is lifted to the skies!

Country: South Africa

This anthem is proof that SAB need not be thin or uninteresting! Perfectly crafted for that combination of vocal elements, this contemporary setting of the standard thanksgiving poem is a fine choice for choirs of any size. A memorable chorus affirms that every good and perfect gift comes from God above. Attractive!

A modern classic, this contemporary song combines a beautiful theme with words of assurance and comfort. Affirming the promises of God's peace and protection, the text is a favorite of many, and the music is soothing and reassuring. Remind your people of this treasured hymn and its message of hope and grace. Score and Parts (fl, ob, cl, hn 1-2, perc 1-3, rhy, vn 1-2, va, vc, kybd) available as a digital download. Parts for Praise Band (perc 1-3, rhy, kybd) also available as a digital download.

Composer: Wayne Kirkpatrick

Written in a familiar gospel vernacular, this Advent message is wrapped in pure joy. There is a jubilant bounce to this spirited proclamation and even traditional choirs will enjoy this song of anticipation. Strains of Go, Tell It on the Mountain act as musical punctuation marks to a positive message of hope and praise. Easy to learn!

Uses: Advent Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 28:16; Matthew 1:23 This Advent offering is alive with hopeful anticipation. A lightly rhythmic theme is decorated with flute and bright percussion, which brings a uniqueness to the piece. Referencing the classic O Come, O Come Emmanuel, the anthem provides something familiar and something fresh. Ear catching!

Joyful confidence surrounds this rhythmic anthem of praise! Unfolding gradually with a series of musical steps, the opening paints the title in vivid hues. A lightly contemporary theme delivers syncopations with well-crafted vocal contours, and the full and rich choral sound of the refrain affirms the call to worship with singing. A brief quote from When Morning Gilds the Skies adds contrast and a familiar element to the presentation.

Composer: Patricia Mock

This beautiful Xhosa prayer has been set with care by Michael Barrett and Ralf Schmitt. The flowing vocal lines are achievable by a variety of levels, while the addition of the two soloists adds great forward momentum. This would work well in concert or in church.

A scripture message from 1 Corinthians, reminding us that we are to put our confidence in God alone. A lightly syncopated theme is easy to learn and the words are affirming to young hearts. Don't miss this one!

This joyful song of adoration will make your heart dance before the Lord! Blessed Be the King is a lively song of praise to the mighty creator God. Bass and percussion, or the Lite Trax accompaniment CD enhances the Hebrew folk dance feel of this exciting anthem. Fun to sing!

Uses: Advent, Christmas, Marian Scripture: Genesis 3:15; Luke 1:26-56; Luke 2 An apex of contemporary sacred music, this popular solo now made choral, probes the emotions and sentiments felt by Mary as she ponders the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. Heart-felt and filled with gentle beauty, this sensitively arranged octavo rises and falls like a prayer. Ideal for Marian emphasis or Advent services, this soliloquy of grace will become a favorite with your singers. Available separately: SATB, StudioTrax CD (Accomp., SplitTrax, Perf.), Orchestration (Score & parts for Flute 1 & 2, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn 1 & 2, Harp, Piano, Synth, Elec. Bass, Percussion, Violin 1 & 2, Viola, Cello). Duration: ca. 4:55.

Composer: Chris Eaton Performed By: Amy Grant

This anthem from the cantata Sing a Song of Christmas is an absolute joy to hear and sing! Set in an infectious call-and-response format, this quickly learned octavo fills a happy Advent niche in your progression to Christmas. The versatile selection could incorporate a solo with choral response and could even be useful with an antiphonal or multigenerational concept. Add a little percussion pattern (shaker, egg, etc.) and this good-natured gospel takes on an island feel. Score and Parts (flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, bass guitar, marimba, percussion 1-3) available as a digital download.

Uses: General, Lent Scripture: Psalm 55:22; I Peter 5:7 From the initial sounds of a beloved spiritual to the jazzy original tune that forms the body of the piece, this energetic anthem is a proven crowd pleaser! The theme is quickly learned and the fun accompaniment adds just enough spice to make this piece a recipe for success. For general or concert use, you just can't go wrong!

Uses: Christmas, youth choir Scripture: Matthew 1:21; John 18:36-37 There is unbounded joy at the heart of this Christmas choral. Add some spontaneous percussion (shakers, bongos) and let it really shine! Written with a subtle island feel, this piece is pure Christmas delight. Available: SATB, LiteTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:02.

The urgent joy of the driving 6/8 meter is reminiscent of a celtic folk dance and the idiomatic orchestration adds to the folk flavor in this unique Advent offering. Prepare the way for the Lord this Advent season with an anthem easily learned, but not soon forgotten. Outstanding!

The happy intermingling of two traditional seasonal lyrics and tunes makes for an interesting re-imagining in this octavo. After a meditative introduction, the theme unfolds with unison voices before breaking into harmony for the refrain. Score and Parts (fl, cl, tpt, tbn, perc, syn) available as a digital download.

Here is a wonderful Advent or general use piece that is really something quite out of the ordinary. This exciting anthem is an adaptation of Isaiah's prophecy of hope. Comfort Ye is an infectiously joyful piece from the writing team of J. Paul Williams and Michael Barrett.

A bright new take on a modern worship classic, a perennial favorite is presented here with a world-music vibe. Immediately engaging, this choral acclamation is filled with gestures of joy and praise. Infused with a powerful urban gospel harmonic language and a primal rhythmic drive, this anthem is a contemporary tour de force. The song's power bridge builds to a crescendo of vibrant intensity celebrating our salvation and spiritual jubilee. An instant hit! Score and Parts (pic, cl, tpt, asx, tsx, bsx, perc 1-3, el pno, gtrs, fr b, dm, vn 1-2, vc, vc) available as a digital download.

Composer: Robin Mark

This joyful anthem will serve any time of the year to lift spirits and turn hearts toward God. Let your young musicians join in the celebration.

Uses: General, Youth Choir, Baptism, Graduation Scripture: John 14:1-4; I Corinthians 2:9 The words of Paul are brought to musical life in this lightly contemporary scripture song. The pleasant tune and arrangement make this an easy to listen to, hard to forget octavo for choirs of all ages. Lots of unison singing ensures quick success for your ensemble, while the harmonic moments are rich and satisfying. Excellent with the addition of the optional flute! Part included.

This is a utilitarian anthem, as it provides both Palm Sunday and Easter texts with the option of SAB or SATB voicing. This exuberant shout of praise is quickly learned and the accompaniment/performance track adds a contemporary element that will be useful for many congregations. Glory to God, Hosanna in the Highest is rhythmic and exciting!

Something refreshing for your Easter and post-Easter worship celebrations! Harkening back to early folk/rock styles, this anthem sets toes tapping from note one! A touch of urban gospel in the accompaniment establishes the vocal dialogue that characterizes the theme. Opportunities for multiple solos in a call and response sequence add variety and the choral ostinato transitions to the ending for a really special moment. Pure joy!

Uses: General, Youth Choir Scripture: Psalm 66:7; Isaiah 48:12-13; Revelation 4:11; Job 38:4-7 Peppered with a jazzy gospel feel, this contemporary original is just the recipe for keeping the spirit of joy alive in your group. The minor mode is very distinctive and the repeated phrases create an immediacy that cannot be denied. An idiomatic flute part completes the package and the affirming message delivers a simple yet profound message of confident devotion. Flute part included. Available separately: SA(T)B, LiteTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:34.

A reassuring passage from scripture is set to gently contemporary music in this choral offering. Marking the theme with positive energy, approachable syncopations will build choral confidence. The assurance found in the book of Zephaniah is encouragement for the soul: God takes great delight in His children and rejoices over us! Though written for SAB voices, there is full impact in the harmonic treatment of the vocals, bringing a shimmering gospel aesthetic to the piece. Brief in length but lasting in impact, this anthem is a one-rehearsal wonder!

Words by Civilla D. Martin, 1869-1948 This new choral is a very distinctive take on a classic hymn. Infusing the enduring hymn, God Will Take Care of You with the newer chorus, God Is So Good, this anthem refreshes the spirit as you sing it. Appropriate for any age group, this gently rhythmic tune opens a cappella, and then gives way to a clean, world music styling. The optional instrumentation and Accompaniment on Lite Trax 2003, Vol. 63-2 (MD5200) add to the fun of God Will Take Care of You.

Uses: Christmas, Youth Choir Scripture: Luke 2:8-9, Psalm 96:3, Matthew 28:19 A traditional spiritual is re-tooled into a cheerful Christmas spiritual announcing the birth of Jesus. Crafted for success, this one-rehearsal-wonder is a sure-fire-winner for ensembles of any size. A bouncy, joyful piano part supports the learning and reasonable ranges make this brief anthem truly accessible.

This is a different approach to the excitement and anticipation of Advent. Written in a distinctive jazz style, this anthem will be a favorite and a wonderful change of pace from the usual. The flute really adds to the tonal ambience and with a light rhythm session, this really takes off. Cool!

Arranger: David Angerman

Let the joy of worship transport you as you sing this joyful acclamation of confidence and hope in Christ the solid rock. Composed in a neo-fifties rock setting, this piece has a light and joyful feel with a strong and confident message of hope and salvation. A perennial bestseller, this re-release features a few gentle rewrites to help enable successful performances. If you missed it the first time, make sure you catch this winner now.

Uses: General, Thanksgiving, Youth, Praise Team Scripture: Psalm 40:3 The abundant joy of new life in Christ is on full display in this energetic praise offering. Cleverly voiced for either SAB or SATB choirs, this happy tune is immediate in its appeal. Easy to learn but hard to forget, you will find this message in song a great choice any time of the year. Available separately: SA(T)B, LiteTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:31.

Michael Barrett and Jennifer Dowell have crafted a simply beautiful song for worship. He Will Carry You Through will sing its way into your heart. Jennifer Dowell's intimate, original text is joined with lines from the classic hymn, Yield Not to Temptation, to create a timeless message for the contemporary church. Michael Barrett's two-part, or optional three-part choral writing complements the gentle pop feel of the piece, making it an accessible as well as an effective part of your worship.

Uses: Palm Sunday Scripture: Matthew 21:9 The triumphal entry is gloriously displayed utilizing both traditional and contemporary songs in this festive offering. Written in an almost pop-opera style, this arrangement offers the best of something old and something new, mixing two diverse styles effortlessly with a sense of drama appropriate to the Palm Sunday observance.

Composer: Michael W. Smith

Joy overflowing abounds in this Palm Sunday offering. Written in the style of a Hebrew folk song, this festive anthem will be something very memorable for commemorating Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The optional instrumentation adds great flavor to the presentation. Easy to learn, hard to forget!

Uses: Advent, Revival, Concert Scripture: Matthew 16:27; Matthew 25; Luke 9:26 A gospel Advent sensation, this spirited number will set feet to tapping and hands to clapping. Preparing our hearts for the coming King, we shout our worship and adoration. The appearance of the spiritual, I Want To Be Ready, raises the roof with joy and celebration. Available separately: SATB, LiteTrax CD. Duration: ca. 3:52.

Uses: General, Thanksgiving This very joyful Thanksgiving piece incorporates the hymn For the Beauty of the Earth and juxtaposes it with a rhythmic original tune that will jump off the page and into your heart. Superb! Available: 2 Part Treble, SAB, LiteTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:13.

A gentle, contemporary anthem about giving back to God. For stewardship emphasis, services of dedication or commitment, or any Sunday, I Will Not Come Empty-Handed sings of giving our all - a sacrifice of praise. Parts are available for rhythm combo, or you may choose the LiteTrax accompaniment CD. Great for blended worship.

Composer: Karen Crane

Start your toes a-tappin' and your hands a-clappin'! This Southern gospel-style anthem from David Angerman and Michael Barrett is energetic and infectious. In the Twinkling of an Eye will have choir and congregation looking forward to the Second Coming like nothing else will!

A true feel-good song in a cheerful gospel style, this toe-tapper will lift everyone's spirits! A positive service opener with a message to praise God in every situation, this scripture-based song offers a fascinating blend of traditional styling and gospel sizzle. A call-and-response format defines the verses, making for easy learning. A slower contrasting middle section gives the choir a chance to enjoy richer harmonies before the anthem crescendoes to a praiseworthy conclusion. Joyful!

For Palm Sunday, the message of the promised King reverberates throughout this triumphant anthem, set first in minor before the refrain surrenders to the chorus of the classic, The Holy City. A vigorous piano part supports the power of the lush harmonic language, bringing a traditional choral ambience to the sanctuary. Inspiring!

Arranger: David Angerman

Alive with the vitality of a Hebrew dance, this anthem brings pure joy into the house of the Lord. Driven by the admonition to share salvation with the world, the melody in minor shines with confident patterns of praise. Short and successful, this piece will become a favorite with choirs and audiences alike. Jubilant!

Uses: General, Praise Team, Youth Choir Scripture: II Samuel 1:2; Psalm 45:11; James 4:10 Exciting and vibrant music meets worshipful affirmations of praise in this brilliant contemporary anthem. Instantly appealing, the repetitive syncopations infuse the piece with a retro-pop vibe, easing the learning curve and inviting hands to clap right from the start. This one is sure to be a favorite of choir and congregation alike!

Composer: Joel Shoemake

A singular song of thanksgiving, this lightly rhythmic offering is seasoned with a tasteful jazz syntax. The theme in minor is an easy sing and well-balanced with unison and fuller harmonies. Displaying a spirit of gratitude for the blessings of life, this piece is usable any time of the church year. A special moment occurs when the early American hymn tune RESTORATION appears joined with the lyrics of Come Ye Thankful People, Come.

This lively seasonal number will put a smile in your heart. Spiced with an islands feel, the easy-to-learn vocal parts and lightly rhythmic accompaniment assure success.

Hold on to your hats and tie down the pews! This driving gospel offering from Paul Williams and Michael Barrett will definitely shake the rafters. Borrowing from the beloved hymn The Everlasting Arms, and expounding on the concepts of God as a mighty tower, a fortress, Rock of Ages, and Shepherd, this high voltage song of assurance is unforgettable! Lord, I Will Lean on You will become a fast favorite of choir and congregation, young and young-at-heart.

Here is another fantastic South African arrangement from Barrett and Schmitt! Modimo is a song of praise and celebration. Improvised percussion and a traditional Sesotho melody make for a grounded and deep sound your singers will immediately connect with. A quick learn with a huge impact.

From atop the contemporary Christian radio charts comes this new piece that will set your toes tapping! Your choir will adore tackling this new favorite written in a Heartlands gospel rock style. The song connects with memories of the past and unifies the church with the themes of joy and praise. Presented with standard four-part chords, the chorus brings alive the old church choir vibe and the verses capture the style of the original recording in a natural yet approachable way for choirs of any age. Even if you are a traditional congregation, your group will love singing this as a sermon response or final parting shout of commitment.

Composer: Zach Williams

Uses: Christmas, Concert, Youth Choir Scripture: Luke 2:9-14, Isaiah 7:14, I Peter 1:19, John 1:29 The world music feel of this piece is truly unique and brings a special quality into the sanctuary. The angelic call to the shepherds is the foundation for the text and the call and response format makes for easy learning and builds intensity throughout the anthem. Add flute and percussion for an outstanding concert moment. Brilliant!