Review: A wonderful collection of contemporary Latin American choral music selected by noted Argintian conductor and composer Oscar Escalada. "La Chaparrita " is a brisk Venezuelan folk melody and is fun to sing and includes the vocal imitation of a typical pattern played on a "cuarto". "Candomble", from Uruguay, is written in a rhythm very close to the tango and the habanera. "La Ninez De America" is based on a poem of Argentinian poet Alberto del Carril and is inspired by the Incas. "Cancion Con Todos " is a two-part song based on two different rhythms. The first part is calm and recognizes each area of the Americas with characteristic elements such as copper for Chile, sun for Peru etc. The second part is rhythmic and exultant with the hope of bringing all the peoples of Latin America to sing together!

Songlist: La Chaparrita, Candomble, Cancion Con Todos, Se Equivoco La Paloma (The Dove Was Wrong), La Ninez De America

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-latin-america/

Review: Professor Peter Schickele is an American treasure who is been delighting audiences for almost half a century with his clever, humorous and very entertaining alter ego P.D.Q. Bach. Here are three of his finest songs for SSAA voices. Fun for singers and audiences alike!

Songlist: Throw The Yule Log On, Uncle John, O Little Town of Hackensack, Good King Kong Looked Out

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/novelty/

Review: A whimsical collection of original madrigals written by the maestro of classical mirth. Your ensemble will have as much fun singing them as the audience does listening.

Songlist: My Bonnie Lass She Smelleth, Four Curmudgeonly Canons, The Queen to Me a Royal Pain Doth Give, O Little Town of Hackensack, Throw The Yule Log On, Uncle John, Good King Kong Looked Out, Two Hearts, Four Lips, Three Little Words

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/humorous/

Review: Philip Glass has consistently written for choruses throughout his career including major operas (Satyagraha, The Voyage) and large orchestral works (symphonies Nos. 5 & 7, Passion of Ramakrishna). However, Three Songs is unique as the composer's only a cappella choral work.

Songlist: A Clear Midnight, Haze Gold, Spring Grass

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-modern/

Review: In 'For The Beauty of the Earth,' such beautiful words deserve to be set to equally beautiful music, and here the textures unfold and the piece blossoms from bar one to the end. Starting in two parts and organically growing to seven, the music is designed to lift the hearts of all that perform and hear it. A new work for a new day. Famously set to music by Thomas Tallis, and taking words from the gospel of John, 'If Ye Love Me' is a fresh attempt at this famous passage of scripture. Rich harmonies will resonate in your performance space, enveloping your listeners with a tapestry of sound. The famous text of 'Tomorrow Will Be My Dancing Day' receives a madrigal-like setting with vibrant mixed meters and colorful vocal textures. Excellent for chamber groups and a cappella programs, this fascinating and rewarding work will surely delight! A new and simple arrangement of the famous prayer"God Be in My Head" joins the existing repertoire with rich harmony and strong melodic line. "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day" - soft, expressive and thought provoking phrasing shape this lovely setting for unaccompanied voices. With an interesting use of the 5/8 time signature, the melody flows endlessly and effortlessly.

Songlist: Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, If Ye Love Me, For the Beauty of the Earth, Jesus Christ, The Apple Tree, God Be In My Head

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-england/

Review: Since that day in 1940, 'Alleluia' this classic of classics has become one of the nation's most-often performed choral works. Rare is the church, school, community, or professional choir that has not sung it. The masterful construction and simplicity of text (Alleluia, Amen) make the Alleluia suitable for almost any choir for almost any occasion. 'The Gate of Heaven' Composed for the dedication of the Jessie Ball duPont Chapel, Hollins College, Virginia, 1959. It is particularly suitable for the dedication of religious buildings. The Eternal Dove was composed in 1968 to honor Harvard University Professor G. Wallace Woodworth. It is closely related to the composer's Mass of the Holy Spirit of which Dr. Woodworth gave the first complete performance. 'Fare Well' was written for performance by the combined high scholl choirs of Calhoun, Kennedy, and Mepham, New York, in 1973. The three-stanza poem by Walter De La Mare (1873-1956) closes with, "Look thy last on all things lovely, / Every hour. Let no night / Seal thy sense in deathly slumber / Till to delight / Thou have paid thy utmost blessing; Since that all things wouldst praise / Beauty took from those who loved them / In other days." 'Bitter Sweet' was first performed by the choir of the Church of the Incarnation, New York City, on Oct. 25, 1970, under the direction of Thomas Dunn, who first called Thompson's attention to George Herbert's poignant and profoundly religious poem.

Songlist: The Eternal Dove, Fare Well, The Gate Of Heaven, Bitter - Sweet, Alleluia

Review: Five choral works by one of the master's of 20th century American choral music. Randall Thompson's Alleluia. Since 1940, this classic of classics has become one of the nation's most-often performed choral works. Rare is the church, school, community, or professional choir that has not sung it. The masterful construction and simplicity of text (Alleluia, Amen) make the Alleluia suitable for almost any choir for almost any occasion. "The Gate of Heaven" was composed for the dedication of the Jessie Ball duPont Chapel, Hollins College, Virginia, 1959. It is particularly suitable for the dedication of religious buildings. "Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep" In response to a complaint from his students about having to use Latin texts, Dr. Thompson composed this motet at the blackboard for his class in modal counterpoint. The text is the familiar bedtime prayer from The New England Primer. "Pueri Hebraeorum" was composed in 1928 for the Wellesley College Choir, when the enrollment grew to twice the size the chancel could accommodate. The choirs sang back and forth from opposite ends of the chapel. Jacob Handl's Haec Dies had suggested the pattern for eight-part chorus. The voice parts may be doubled by two quartets of similar instruments. The text is in Latin. Particularly suitable for Palm Sunday. "Rosemary", the name of Thampson's daughter, was commission by the Women's University Glee Club of New York and is based on a cycle of American verse. Any one of these compositions would make an interesting and rewarding addition to a women's choir repertoire.

Songlist: Alleluia, The Gate of Heaven, Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep, Pueri Hebraeorum, Rosemary

Review: This communion service, though appropriate for any season of the Church year, was designed especially for use at Whitsuntide. It can also serve very effectively as concert repertoire, either in its entirety or excerpted. The movements are in English (except for the Kyrie).

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

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/sacred/

Review: The text is by Quintus Horatius Flaccus (December 8, 65 BC - November 27, 8 BC), known in the English-speaking world as Horace. He was a leading lyrical Roman poet of his day. The words are about passion, nature and the Gods. The music features a dramatic mix of homophony and polyphony to paint the words

Songlist: Vitas hinnuelo me simillis, Cnloe, Montium custos nemorumque, Virgo, O fons Bandusiae, splendidior vitro, Felices Ter, O Venus, regina, Quis multa graciliis

Review: Rebecca Clarke is considered by many commentators to be one of the most important British composers in the interwar period and has been described as the most distinguished British female composer of her generation. Best known for her chamber music featuring the viola she also composed many choral pieces, a great deal of which were never published. Thanks to the recent efforts of The Rebecca Clarke Society, based out of the Women's Studies Research Center at Brandeis University, there is a renewed interest in her work. This is a collection of newly published arrangements for unaccompanied mixed chorus that clearly demonstrate why her work was recognized for its compositional skill.

Songlist: Come, Oh Come, My Life's Delight, A Lover's Dirge, Music, When Soft Voices Die, My Spirit Like A Charmed Bark Doth Float, Philomela, Weep You No More, Sad Fountains, When Cats Run Home and Light is Come

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-england/

Review: Rene Clausen, conductor of the Concordia Choir, Concordia College, Moorhead, Minnesota, is a graduate of St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota. He holds a Master's degree in conducting performance and a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in choral conducting from the University of Illinois. Here we present you with 6 of his most well known A Cappella choral selections, a must have for any large, advanced choir!

Songlist: Set Me As A Seal, Sweet Was The Song, Tonight Eternity Alone, Peace I Leave With You, Hosanna

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-modern/

Review: 'Thank The Lord' is a beautiful 4-part sacred folk tune that begins with a great soprano solo. The unique setting of e.e. cummings' celebrated poem 'i thank you God' is a challenge, but the overall effect is stunning. Dissonance, tone color, and texture are ever-changing in this a cappella gem where chord cluster follows chord cluster. Cummings' vividly painted words are well-suited to Rene Clausen's inimitable gift of melody. Clausen's impressionistic 'La Lumiere (The Light)' is a wonderful, sensual experience in tone color and texture. As the poet's spiritual perception changes, he views his visual landscape in a new light. In much the same way, Clausen transforms the listener's aural landscape with layer upon layer of changing harmony and musical texture. Written for a cappella choir with divisi in each voice part, this modern impressionistic choral will showcase the talents of the most discerning ensemble. Choirs capable of singing 8-part harmony will love 'All That Hath life & Breath Praise Ye the Lord.' The lush chords and triumphant sound will also move the audience. Another 8-part gem, 'Magnificat' showcases Clausen's uncanny ability to weave beautiful melodies with intricate harmonies that can both sooth and excite the listener.

Songlist: Thank The Lord, I Thank You God, La Lumiere, All That Hath Life & Breath Praise Ye the Lord!, Magnificat

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-modern/

Review: This compilation contains six, delightful compositions by Rene Clausen for the express enjoyment of your mixed-voice group. "The Early Bird" is a tone poem that lets out all the stops, presenting a wonderful adventure for the advanced choir. "Song at Dusk" is much like a vocal tone poem, in how the soaring melodies dramatically illuminate the poem (by Leigh Haynes). "Plenty Good Room" is guaranteed to bring down the house, swinging with classy, jazz element including a scat solo. "Alleluia" is a dramatic piece containging marvelous harmonic build-up and a sensitive ending. "In the Bleak Midwinter" is a composition based on a poem by Christina Rossetti that was originally a Christmas poem expressing her piety and love for the beauty of nature. "Canticle of Praise" was originally written for the King's Singers (a 6-man ensemble) and the Morman Tabernacle Choir, however, this publication is the version re-scored by the Clausen for performance by his Concordia Choir. 

Songlist: The Early Bird, Song at Dusk, Plenty Good Room, Alleluia, In the Bleak Midwinter, Canticle of Praise

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-modern/

Review: Robert DeCormier is an American musical conductor, arranger, and director, and a graduate of the Juilliard School. He has arranged music for many singers and groups, including Harry Belafonte and Peter, Paul, and Mary, and has worked with Milt Okun. DeCormier is perhaps most famous for his spiritual arrangements.here is an a cappella setting of the Sacred Harp melody "Wayfaring Stranger" which has been part of the choral repertoire for many years. If you haven't performed this recently, do it now! There is a delightful vocal jazz choral setting of the classic Dixieland favorite "Ja Da." A real crowd pleaser for any concert! The classic spiritual "JA-DA" should be in the library of every high school choir. Sure to inspire your audience and students alike!

Songlist: He's Got the Whole World in His Hands, Ja-Da, Poor Wayfaring Stranger

Review: Commissioned by the Vermont Arts Council, this moving setting of 'Everything is Music' (from Pulitzer Prize winner Romain Rolland's text) is a substantial work for advanced ensembles. Expressive vocal lines tell the hallowed story of the Christmas spiritual 'The Glory Manger.' 'The Friendly Beasts' beautifully captures the beloved story of the gentle donkey, pompous cow and sweet dove. The exciting setting of the African-American spiritual, 'Hold on' is inspiring. "Keep your hand on that plow - hold on!"

Songlist: Hold On!, The Glory Manger, Everything Is Music

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/spirituals/mixed/

Review: In 'There Is No Rose of Such Virture' Robert H. Young sets Christina Rossetti's Christmas themed text to music with a beautiful melody and soft yet poignant harmonies. 'Songs of Nativity' include 'The Virgin's Cradle Hymn,' and 'When Christ Was Born of Mary Free,' two timeless Christmas gems. Another Christmas themed poem by Christina Rossetti is 'Before the Paling of the Stars.' This piece starts out with a tenor solo and later has 4-part harmony in the women's voices and 3-part harmony in the men's. The classic tune 'A Babe is Born in Bethlehem' is brought to us with elegant 4-part harmony with occasional divisi in some parts. The 6-part arrangement of 'Sweet Was The Song' would be a great addition to your Christmas program with its beautifully catchy melody. The triumphant harmonies of 'What Sweeter Music Can We Bring' will also wow your audience, perfect for a Christmas Eve celebration.

Songlist: There Is No Rose of Such Virtue, Songs Of The Nativity, Before The Paling of the Stars, A Babe is Born in Bethlehem, Sweet Was The Song, What Sweeter Music Can We Bring?

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/choral/

Review: Robert Young's choral writings are famous for their warm, rich voicings, suspensions and resolutions. Using the poem of one of his favorite authors, Christina Rossetti, he has created another small masterpiece. The setting of "Lovesight" illuminates the rich beauty of the Dante Rossetti text. The expression is full and deep in both word and music. Using a cappella voices and violin obbligato, the new American sea-chantey "Annabel Lee" mourns the loss of the storyteller's love, Annabel Lee. An excellent concert piece for high school. The title "Chanticleer" alone makes us think of musical excellence, and Robert Young's setting of the William Austin (1587-1633) poem more than meets the demand. Celebrating the incarnation of Christ, this piece contains the classic sounds for which Robert Young has become famous. Excellent for church or concert.

Songlist: Somewhere, Lovesight, Annabel Lee, Chanticleer

Review: Six secular choral selections based on texts by well known poets and authors. These charts are best sung by large choirs.

Songlist: Sonnet of Love, Blow, Bugle, Blow, She Sat and Sang Alway, Sudden Light, At Her Fair Hands, The Sands of Dee

Review: Opening with a slow rendition of 'Get on Board Little Children,' 'De Gospel Train' quickly picks up steam arriving at a memorable final chorus. Building from an opening ostinato to a rousing finish, 'Since I Laid My Burdens Down' can be performed a cappella or accompanied. Dilworth pays homage to Moses Hogan in his powerhouse, 'Jeremiah's Fire.' A tambourine drives the rhythm as the fiery vocals build to a breathtaking ending. Spectacular! Enjoy the challenge and reward of this contemporary setting of the traditional spiritual 'Sistah Mary' with its vibrant rhythms and fresh harmonization. An exciting and dramatic setting of the traditional spiritual "Roll, Jordan, Roll!", this substantial work is brimming with brilliance and virtuosity for choirs up to the challenge!

Songlist: Jeremiah's Fire!, Since I Laid My Burdens Down, Sistah Mary, Roll, Jordan, Roll!

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/spirituals/mixed/

Review: Sixteenth century Italian composer Adriano Banchieri must have had quite the sense of humor. The classic light-hearted concert work "Counterpoint Of The Animals" has been a staple in choral repertoire for decades. Now Russell Robinson brings us a new setting that will add a touch of classy fun to any serious concert. "All Ye Who Love Music" was given its English text by Thomas Oliphant in 1837. This arrangement has been lowered one step from the original key of G major to F major. The soprano (Part 1) melody is basically the same; however, Parts II and III have been arranged iin such a way as to limit the range and for ease of singing, while retaining the sound and flavor of the original. As will all Renaissance madrigals, this piece should be sung lightly and lyrically. The three-part original "A Song Of Peace And Harmony" imparts a message of peace and harmony in an easy-to-sing yet highly musical choral work. With a relevant message for today, this lighter concert piece is especially programmable. The well-known song "Psallite" by Praetorius from the German Renaissance period has long been a part of our choral repertoire. Russell Robinson has created an easy-to-sing SATB setting as well as a three-part men's edition. A perfect way to present standard choral repertoire to your developing choirs.

Songlist: Counterpoint of the Animals, All Ye Who Music Love, A Song of Peace and Harmony, Sing Hallelu!, Sing And Rejoice

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/3-parts/

Review: A sumptuous edition of an the cappella standard "April Is In My Mistress' Face" from the madrigal repertoire by Thomas Morley. Available for 3-part mixed voices, Russell Robinson's new adaptation features flowing contrapuntal lines, appropriate vocal ranges, and tasteful editor's marks for a truly authentic performance. Enjoyable to sing, valuable to teach, and splendid to hear. "Fair Phyllis" is another well-edited arrangement by Russell Robinson from the madrigal repertoire. Sung a cappella, or with the piano, the men's part spans only six notes in an easy range for changing voices. Charming secular text, light polyphonic texture, changing meters, and contrasting dynamics. Fair Phyllis is perfect as a first madrigal or as a Renaissance feature on any program. "Sing We And Chant It" - Introduce your 3-part choir to madrigal singing with this wonderful new edition of the Thomas Morley classic designed especially for young singers by Russell Robinson. Reduced to three voice parts, this edition still sounds full and captures all the spirit and joy of madrigal singing. Suitable for large choirs as well as small groups. Add this work to your choral library and use it year after year. An excellent teaching piece...but perform it at concert and festival time, too.

Songlist: Now Is The Month Of Maying, How Merrily We live, Fair Phyllis, Sing We And Chant It, April Is In My Mistress' Face, Fair Phyllis, Now Is The Month Of Maying, How Merrily We live

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/madrigals/

Review: "Now is the Month of Maying" - Morley's famous madrigal is arranged perfectly for 3-part mixed voices. Excellent for developing choirs and small vocal ensembles. Limited range male part. "How Merrily We Live" - Another well-edited arrangement by Russell Robinson of a light and spirited work from the madrigal repertoire. It's the perfect choice for any SSA or 3-part mixed choir, with or without experience in madrigal singing. May be performed a cappella or with piano doubling the voices. Perfect for developing part singing in today's treble and mixed choirs. "Fair Phyllis" - Another well-edited arrangement by Russell Robinson from the madrigal repertoire. Sung a cappella, or with the piano, the men's part spans only six notes in an easy range for changing voices. Charming secular text, light polyphonic texture, changing meters, and contrasting dynamics. Fair Phyllis is perfect as a first madrigal or as a Renaissance feature on any program. "Counterpoint of the Animal" - Sixteenth century Italian composer Adriano Banchieri must have had quite the sense of humor. This classic light-hearted concert work has been a staple in choral repertoire for decades. Now Russell Robinson brings us a new setting that will add a touch of classy fun to any serious concert. "My Bonnie Lass" - This arrangement of a favorite Thomas Morley madrigal, a popular choice in the 3-part voicing, is now available for SATB and TBB choirs. Bright tonalities and buoyant contrapuntal textures display the sound of Renaissance choral music. Another fine Robinson edition.

Songlist: My Bonnie Lass, Now is the Month of Maying, How Merrily We Live, Fair Phyllis, Counterpoint of the Animal

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/madrigals/

Review: Ruth Watson Henderson writes: "I have always felt that there is a strong connection between visual colors and musical colors. When I came across the poems about colors in Mary O'Neill's book, Hailstones and Halibut Bones, I realized they would make wonderful songs for young singers. I tried to capture the different colors in the poems I chose with scales and intervals that seemed to match them. Strong colors are expressed with dissonant sounds, while softer colors are described with whole tones and gentler sounds. Particular keys are associated with the various colors: Red is in a key with sharps, Blue is in a key with flats and White has no sharps or flats."

Songlist: White, Orange, Gold, Blue, Red

Review: The path of love is not always sunlit. In "Shades of Love," the music expresses a variety of emotions brought on by the diverse stages of love: ecstasy, tenderness, bitterness, wistfulness, eternal devotion. The colours and harmonies shift to match the mood of the poetry as each song portrays a different aspect of love.

Songlist: She Walks In Beauty, Annabel Lee, When We Two Parted, Awake My Heart, Remember

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/choral-canada/

Review: Stephen Foster was America's Schubert - the lyric laureate of the 19th Century South. With Foster sentiment was a virtue, expressed in sweet harmonies and haunting tunes. The underlying emotion of these songs is nostalgia - a pervasive longing for things lost which seems to permeate the very intervals of the melodies. When Foster - like Schubert - died young and poor, it seemed as though he was fulfilling the prophecies of his own melancholy songs. Jon Washburn's medly of favorite Stephen Foster songs was composed in 1985 for the Vancouver Chamber Choir and premiered on a concert called the music of the Great Songwriters. Gregg Smith edits/arranges 'Come Where My Love Lies Dreaming,' which was elected by the National Endowment for the Arts as an one of the "American Masterpieces" of choral music. Halloran's arrangement of camptown races is very fun to sing, great opportunity for a soloist along with some excellent vocal accompaniment. Halloran's arrangement of Nelly Bly is equally fun with an energizing chorus, and the men get the melody in the verses!

Songlist: A Stephen Foster Medley, Nelly Bly, Camptown Races, Come Where My Love Lies Dreaming

Voicing: sheet-music/americana/

Review: The "Apple-Tree Wassail" comes from the cider country of Devon and Somerset, where it might be sung in the orchards or at the farmer's door. Wassail comes from the Anglo-Saxon wes hael - to be healthy. "The Green Shores of Fogo" bears marks of Irish provenance, although its musical origins were lost before Kenneth Peacock collected the song from Mrs. John Fogarty in 1952. The tune, which Peacock considered one of the most beautiful modal melodies he had ever heard, has attracted more than one set of lyrics, and is also known in Newfoundland as "The Blooming Bright Star of Belle Isle." Colcannon, made from various combinations of cabbage, kale, onions, scallions and potatoes mashed with butter and milk, is one of Ireland's most famous traditional dishes. Although this piece at first seems like a tribute to food, it's really a tribute to memory, and to times gone. The verses take us from the home, to the school, to courting on a country lane, with the narrator a little older in every verse, and a little more aware of the magic of the moment. "Girl of the Branches" emulates the long phrases and finely developed breath control that is a hallmark of Gaelic singing. Also included is the Jutland folk song "When The Star Falls".

Songlist: Girl of the Branches (Nighean nan Geug), When the Stars Fall, Colcannon, The Green Shores of Fogo, Apple-Tree Wassail

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/3-parts/

Review: These original pieces incorporates a multiplicity of multicultural influences, from Peru to Scotland. The text is a sequence of nonsense syllables, imitating the humming and muttering one does during housework. The first movement explores various hemiola patterns culminating in vocalized drum patterns modeled on Arabic and Indian traditions. The second movement, whose slow groove is derived from Reggae, incorporates tonalities and scale structures from Brazil and Lebanon. The final movement starts in Peru, and works upward through Latin America only to discover a hitherto unexplored Mexican/Scottish border. Lots of fun to both teach and sing!

Songlist: Three Ways To Vacuum Your House - Part I, Three Ways To Vacuum Your House - Part II, Three Ways To Vacuum Your House - Part III

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/wordless/

Review: Stephen Hatfield is noted for his exciting arrangements of world music, and for his original works which weave influences from diverse cultures into a fresh and distinctive idiom. His choirs have earned gold medals in national festivals, and he has received various awards for his work in education and music. With "For Elizabeth:.." Hatfield uses the old Italian technique of matching the vowels of her name to the corresponding sol-fa syllables to create an ostinato that metaphorically translates her into music. The piece combines poignancy with lots of sparkle, lots of interlocking ostinati. The mix of tenderness and energy has effected audiences strongly. "Glettur" is an Icelandic word that signifies a mischievous but ultimately good-hearted sense of humour. Launching itself from a snatch of an old fiddle jig, "Glettur" lives up to its name with crafty changes of style and key, and with ironic allusions to a couple of other famous pieces of music that have something to do with high spirit. With "Fashion Victim, Drama Queen" we have a slangy de profundis about trying to placate your peer group. The soli section acts as the Drama Queen, while the rest of the choir takes the part of the peer group, commenting on the outsider in a mixture of English and Tex-Mex Spanish slang. Each movement of Missa Brevis incorporates folk melodies from a different country. The moods and the tempi of the originals have been altered; melodies have been unraveled, spliced together and persuaded to modulate.

Songlist: For Elizabeth: Gold, Frank Innocence, and Mirth, Glettur, Fashion Victim, Drama Queen, Missa Brevis

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/3-parts/

Review: 'Do You Hear What I Hear' is an exquisite a cappella setting of the beloved Christmas classic! 'Ding Dong Merrily on High' is a delightful setting of this appealing dance carol! Ed Lojeski has developed a wonderful madrigal-style extension to the traditional melody, and counterpoints it all with "Good King Wenceslas". 'I Saw Three Ships' i a fun and easily learned arrangmeent for any size vocal ensemble. The German baroque chorale ' Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming' (Est Ist Ein' Ros' Entsprungen), is a tasteful adaptation by John Leavitt, featuring the tenor on the melody of the second verse and a soprano descant on the third verse. Includes English and German texts. Edwin Fissinger's simple, elegant arrangement of 'Silent Night' features both English and German verses. It's easy to prepare, yet is sure to be one of the most stunning pieces on any holiday program.

Songlist: Silent Night, I Saw Three Ships, Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming, Ding Dong! Merrily on High

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/choral/

Review: Lullabies have been around for thousands of years and in almost all cultures and are probably some of the very first songs ever sung by humans. A lullaby is not surprising appreciated by many of us even as we age and they can be a pleasant addition to any concert. Here are a collection of interesting arrangements of lullabies from Europe.

Songlist: Suo-Gan, Celtic Lullaby, Hush Little Baby, Lullaby, Three Lullabies, Op. 49

Voicing: a-cappella/lullabies/

Review: "Bright Mansions" - This SSAA setting displays K. Lee Scott's adaptability. His command of vocal writing is excellent, and his arranging style is never overdone. A refined reserve to his technique make this an elegant spiritual setting for high school, college and church treble choirs. "Hold On!" - Stacey Gibbs wants to "bring life" to the spiritual for use in the concert hall. This arrangement confirms why his arrangements are so popular: the rhythms and harmonies are fun to sing and he builds things up to a rousing finish. This arrangement for women's voices reminds us to "keep your hand on the plow as you climb higher and higher...just hold on." "Keep Your Lamps" - Here is the traditional spiritual in a contemporary and dramatic setting for women's unaccompanied voices, opening with a beginning unison melody, performed in a slow, heavy manner. When the tempo picks up, the melody is supported by the other voices and a recurring rhythmic groove that adds to the urgency of the text. "Shout All Over God's Heaven" - Let your women's choir loose in this swinging spiritual! It is easy and fun to sing, building to an impressive ending. A good closer or encore in your concert program!

Songlist: Nothin' Gonna Stumble My Feet, Bright Mansions, Over My Head, Hold On!, Keep Your Lamps

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/spirituals/female/

Review: Gabriel's Message is an 8-part divisi (the beginning splits into 16 parts!) triumphant Christmas Chart. 'Jingle Bells' features a fun vocal accompaniment with great opportunities for soloists. 'I Wonder As I Wander' is a sweet carol with beautiful vocal textures. In this arrangement of 'Go Tell It On The Mountain' the composer focuses on the text, bringing out the meaning of the song, which is often not understood. The 'Twenty Christmas Canons' are easily accessible as they can be performed by all voice types and in any key.

Songlist: Gabriel's Message, Jingle Bells, I Wonder As I Wander, Go, Tell it on the Mountain, Twenty Christmas Canons

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/choral/

Review: These useful benedictions and blessings is perfect for those occasions when you want to showcase your male voices. It includes a traditional favorite, the celebrated The Lord Bless You and Keep You by Peter Lutkin. Arranged here for the first time for men's voices, this familiar response is followed by a new, original composition, Benediction, that is more contemporary in nature. Both pieces contain lush harmonies and a rich glee club sound that bring out the best in a men's choir. Put a beautiful ending on your worship service with Two Benedictions for Men. "A Parting Blessing" is a proven winner that has stood the test of time. We are pleased to award that prestigious status to A Parting Blessing. The familiar words and melody will resonate with your audiences. A great way to close your concert. In a time of increased multi-cultural awareness, "Bwana Awabariki" offers an ideal piece of African culture for both churches and schools. The song emphasizes rhythm, blend, and African-style vocalism with broad, open chords and the familiar low, low bass part. This warm a cappella blessing would be especially effective with added percussion. Well suited for World Communion, mission emphasis, or any multi-cultural gathering, Bwana Awabariki is fun.

Songlist: A Parting Blessing, Bwana Awabariki, Precious Lord, Take My Hand, Now Thank We All Our God, Two Benedictions For Men

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/contemporary-christian/

Review: "Carols of the Nativity" is a set of treasured carol texts featured in these original new contemporary settings by composer Richard Hynson. Each carol has its own distinctive charm and together they create a profoundly beautiful effect. Includes: "Angels We Have Heard on High," "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly," "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear." The powerful setting of the cherished Christmas, "O Holy Night'" standard is ideal for mass finale or processional use. Builds to a dramatic conclusion! "Masters In The Hall" is presented in an exceptional a cappella setting which emphasizes the beauty of this traditional French carol. The distinctive choral artistry of conductor Dale Warland is clearly evident in this expressive choral version of "Of The Father's Love Begotten." The simplicity of the melody and the compelling majesty of the text are captured in an a cappella setting "Silent Night." Also included in this package is an arrangement of Britten's "The Holly And The Ivy".

Songlist: Masters in This Hall, O Holy Night, Of the Father's Love Begotten, Silent Night

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/choral/

Review: "Silent Night" is set in an exquisite new musical setting! Beautiful countermelody and lyrical piano writing enhance a wonderfully refreshing new text! Excellent for all ages, school and church! "O Blessed Christmas" is an original Christmas work by Stan DeWitt with a Frank Pooler text is absolutely stunning! Ideal for high school choirs and beyond. In this gentle a cappella setting, Mac Huff inventively weaves together two Christmas classics "Still, Still, Still," and "Silent Night" for a magical effect. Your choir will love sharing the "good news" with this brand new arrangement of "Glory Hallelujah To The Newborn King" by Roger Emerson. Guaranteed to bring down the house! Also included in this package is "Fanfare For Christmas," and "Mary Did You Know?."

Songlist: One Still and Silent Night, O Blessed Christmas Night, Glory Hallelujah To The Newborn King, Mary, Did You Know?, Fanfare For Christmas

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/contemporary/

Review: The a cappella, Fred Prentice arrangement of " Sing We Now Christmas" has been a popular selection for years and was made popular by the Dale Warland Singers. "See Dat Babe" was selected for the Paul A. Smith Choral Series, and this Christmas spiritual features excellent writing for the a cappella choir, with all the rhythm and vigor to bring the house down. Every a cappella choir will want " Christmas Is A-Comin'" on their Christmas program. Jack Halloran, of "Witness" fame, has captured an all-American sound in this energetic piece. His a cappella arrangements have a distinctive flavor that makes them choral favorites. An excellent choice for the Christmas season. "The Blessed Child" - Donald Bailey, Choral Director from Baylor University, has created a beautiful Christmas selection for a cappella voices. In this setting, the choral parts flow through tender suspensions to warm resolutions. Although a sacred text, the piece will find a place in many college and good high school venues as well. Three delightful Christmas miniatures complete the package.

Songlist: The Blessed Child, Christmas Is A-Comin', Sing We Now of Christmas, See Dat Babe, Three Christmas Miniatures

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/choral/

Review: "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"s is most often identified with Judy Garland's stirring performance. This new Russ Robinson setting with its rich a cappella harmonies is simply marvelous. Your audience and singers will all delight in hearing this exceptional Christmas favorite. "Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy" - Using this famous movement from the timeless holiday ballet The Nutcracker Suite, this new 3-part voicing of Jeff Funk's popular choral arrangement provides a wonderful performance opportunity for school choirs. Lighthearted programming for holiday concerts. "Christmas a la Fa La La" Something new and different for the holidays! This fantastic choral work quotes moments of your favorite carols, all on a "fa la la" text-that is until a bit of the "Hallelujah Chorus" appears near the end. Festive fun for everyone! Can be sung a cappella or with the optional keyboard accompaniment. "The World's Desire" is an exquisite madrigal-style carol using a text by the respected English author, G.K. Chesterton. TThis lovely anthem is perfect for worship or concert, and church or school during the season of Christmas. Don't miss this tremendous jewel! "Christmas Eve is Here" - A fresh approach to this early French carol. Polyphony resounds as sections of the choir perform unique and overlapping lines in a minor mode. Performance options include any combination of a cappella choir, handbells or tonechimes, piano, hand drum, and tambourine. Impressive.

Songlist: Christmas Eve is Here, Noel, Noel!, Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy, Christmas a la Fa La La, The World's Desire (A Christmas Carol), Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/3parts/

Review: 'Lullay, Lullow' (aka 'Mary's Lullaby') is a 2 part arrangement of the 15th Century English carol. Short, but sweet, this carol is perfect for your beginning choir. Betty Bertaux's 3 part arrangement of 'The Holly and the Ivy' is an excellent edition to your Holiday program, and it also is a great tool to help your children's choir learn to sing polyrhythmic harmonies. 'Christmas Bells' is based on the text written by Heny Wadsworth Longfellow, which he wrote in 1863. During that Christmas season, his son was critically wounded in a war, and the text expresses his anguish over war and his longing for peace on earth. The message is as timely today as it was over 125 years ago. While technically challenging, this setting is a must have in your repertoire! Mary Goetze's arrangement of 'Wexford Carol' (from Ireland) has exquisite 3 part harmonies and gives that special voice in your choir the opportunity for an 8 measure solo. Her arrangement of 'Infant Holy' is another 3 part masterpiece, not to be missed! Both pieces would work well for an advanced children's choir or young women's choir.

Songlist: The Holly And The Ivy, Christmas Bells, Wexford Carol, Infant Holy

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/3parts/

Review: The gentle arrangement of the Basque traditional tune, 'O Bethlehem,' uses subtly deployed drones to mark it as a shepherds' carol. The paraphrased text is suitable for general Christmas use, especially on Christmas Eve. The medieval English carol, 'What Tidings Bringest Tho, Messenger?' has question-and-answer dialogue between refrain and verses, making it very effective for pageant performance, as well as for church or concert use. Thie full, yet gentle setting of the beloved Christmas hymn, 'Silent Night' is perfect for a candlelight service or quiet concert closer. The low, rocking chords of the background choral parts are the same for all three stanzas. Interest is built by the addition of a second-stanza solo and third-stanza descants. Experiment with assigning the descants to instruments, or with supporting or replacing the lower voices with organ.

Songlist: Lullay! Lullay! Lytel Child, O Bethlehem, What Tidings Bringest Thou, Messenger?, Silent Night, Hodie, I Sing of a Maiden, Lullay! Lullay! Lytel Child

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/ssaa/

Review: 'He is Born' is fun to sing, with varied textures and has a great variety of compositional techniques. 'My Dancing Day' is a popular old English text and carol, perfect for High school choir Christmas concerts or church choir. It has a variety of contrasts and vocal colors. 'O Holy Child' is a lovely, original carol with lilting "Alleluia" refrains and contrasting introspective verses. Thought provoking textual imagery. Basically two musical ideas (refrain and verse) repeated several times. It is koyful to learn, rewarding to perform and requires flexibility and sensitivity from the singers. 'This Night Did God Become a Child' is a 3-stanza homophonic setting with syncopated "Alleluias" and antiphonal-echo effects. In 'There Is No rose of Such Virtue,' arching melodic line and warm harmonies join hands in the elegantly simple setting for the Christmas season. Laubengayer's arrangement of 'Silent Night' has the traditional text set to a new tune.

Songlist: He Is Born, My Dancing Day, O Holy Child, This Night Did God Become a Child, There Is No Rose of Such Virtue, Silent Night

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/choral/

Review: Develop your choir's a cappella skills with "Alleluia Madrigal", a straightforward original madrigal by Donald Moore. Traditional harmonies, modest ranges, and lots of repetition make it a quick-learn piece. Contrasting dynamics and a lilting three-four meter create a joyful song that is good for Christmas or general use. "What'cha Gonna Bring For Christmas?" - Feature your best solo crooner(s) on this '50s inspired a cappella chorus that begs Santa for a timeless teen wish: "Won't you bring me someone to love?" The choir serves equally as the featured act (of the chorus and bridge) and the backup singers (for two dreamy verses). The final falsetto phrases and 7th chord cadence deliver a sweet doo-wop ending. "Christmas Eve Is Here" - A fresh approach to this early French carol. Polyphony resounds as sections of the choir perform unique and overlapping lines in a minor mode. Performance options include any combination of a cappella choir, handbells or tonechimes, piano, hand drum, and tambourine. Impressive. "Come, See The Baby" is a new, original Christmas spiritual by Jay Althouse. This full-sounding work features much three-part singing over a solid, traditional bass part, as well as an echo section between the women and the men. Sudden dynamic changes are powerful and effective (and simple to sing).

Songlist: Come, See the Baby, What'cha Gonna Bring For Christmas?, Christmas Eve Is Here, Noel, Noel!, Look Up, Children, Alleluia Madrigal, Come, See the Baby, Carol of the Drum

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/choral/

Review: "Christmas On Broadway" - Raise the curtain and cue the lights! Sure to get any audience into the holiday spirit, this 6 minute medley is a lively choral showcase from Broadway's greatest composers! "A Soulful Christmas" - Hey soul sister, you'll love this sweet R&B flavored medley! Add your best moves and you'll have a wonderful showcase for girls'groups of all ages. Five minutes in length. "A Glee-ful Christmas" - Join the cast of Glee as they spread Christmas cheer with dazzling renditions of these holiday classics in a 10-minute medley that will add sparkle to every December concert! "A Pentatonix Chrsitmas" - The Pentatonix Christmas albums are among their most popular. This 7.5-minute medley combines four of their recent holiday hits for a wonderful seasonal showcase for pop, jazz and concert choirs.

Songlist: Christmas On Broadway (Medley), A Soulful Christmas, A Glee-ful Christmas, A Pentatonix Christmas

Review: "A Jingle Bell Christmas" - This is a jingle bell medley just for SSA choirs that will almost sing itself! Super easy and a blast to perform. "An Angelic Christmas Medley" - Beginning with a light jazz feel and optional a cappella voices, this medley floats along with contemporary piano accompaniment and touches upon the angelic lyrics of well-known Christmas carols. A beautiful selection for both secular and sacred settings. "Angels!" - Three favorite carols combine to create a Christmas showcase with a contemporary flair! Rhythmic energy brims in this 3-minute setting with unexpected lifts and choral fanfares

Songlist: A Jingle Bell Christmas (Medley), An Angelic Christmas Medley, Angels! (Medley)

Review: Very cool! A rhythmic and refreshing twist on a holiday favorite! "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" features dynamic syncopation and vocal interplay between parts. The traditional melody is presented in a slightly less than traditional way amidst the dramatic vocal ostinatos and countermelodies of the other parts, then finishes with fabulous glee club choral sound. "Go Tell It on the Mountain" has always been one of our livelier Christmas traditions and Carolyn Jennings's arrangement and additional text is spectacular. This exuberant arrangement for men's voices is bubbling over with joy and good tidings. Great for glee club or men's chorus, or to give the male voices in your mixed choir a moment in the spotlight. This is a real showstopper. "We've Got Good News to Tell!" -With more than eighteen million copies of his works have been sold Don Besig is the recipient of several ASCAP Special Awards. "Jesus, What a Wonderful Child" - Rollo Dilworth's exciting arrangement of this gospel favorite is an exuberant celebration of the birth of Jesus, our Savior and King. This driving, energetic anthem is full of spirit and joy! It will stand on its own with piano only, or add some sparkle with the optional trumpets and rhythm section. A tried and true winner!

Songlist: Go, Tell it on the Mountain, We've Got Good News to Tell!, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Jesus, What a Wonderful Child

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/spirituals/male/

Review: William Powell has adapted Rosephanye Powell's original setting of "Glory Hallelujah To Duh Newbo'n King" for TTBB singers. The results are marvelous. This great, energetic Christmas Spiritual soars with the male voice. Church and school choirs will find this piece an excellent addition to their program. Rehearsal Trax available separately. "The Glory Manger" - Well-written straightforward arrangement of one of the more unusual spirituals, suitable for a holiday concert or worship service. Familiar harmonies make it an easily learned, readily programmed piece. The original Christmas spiritual "Mary Sat A-Rockin'" will delight the congregation. Beginning with a bass ostinato line, the tenors join, and then the women enter in a rhythmic and energetic pattern. Including some divisi for the women, and an interesting key change, "Mary Sat A-Rockin'" explores the full range of dynamics and will be a memorable selection for Christmas.

Songlist: Follow That Star To Bethlehem, Glory Hallelujah To Duh Newbo'n King, Mary Had A Baby, The Glory Manger, Mary Sat A-Rockin', Follow That Star To Bethlehem

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/spirituals/

Review: This package contains four, lush quid of vocal harmony for you and your mixed-voice ensemble, including "Only the Moon Has Secrets," based on a poem that speaks of the moon keeping a child "from fear and from harm" while pursuing its "bright silver journey" across the sky. Also featured is "Amor de mi Alma," based on a highlight of Spanish Renaissance poetry by Garcilaso de la Vega. Also included are "Blow the Candles Out" and "Music, hen the Soft Voices Die."

Songlist: Music, When Soft Voices Die, Blow The Candles Out, Only The Moon Has Secrets

Review: A collection of songs suitable for funerals or memorial services. The hearty folk hymn "I'm Going Home" has a strength and vitality so typical of the songs of the Sacred Harp. I'm Going Home was featured in the oscar-nominated film, Cold Mountain, and Pepper Choplin's accessible a cappella arrangement is destined to be just as successful. Simple, but not simplistic, this sturdy chorus will stir the soul. "Depart in Peace" is a wonderful closing for any service. Your congregation will leave with this blessing in song echoing long after. Everyone needs good benedictions and parting blessings and no one does them better than Don Besig. He features a new version of the classic "God Be with You Till We Meet Again" as well as several other original blessings to round out this useful grouping. The writing is well-suited to choirs of every level of achievement. Essential! The anthem "We Are Not Alone" touches the heart with its reassuring message of God's faithfulness and power. The choir supplies rhythmic energy with its repetitive phrase, We Are Not Alone, while the soloist glides above in smooth sustained lines. The piece will leave the congregation singing this simple but profound truth long after the service has ended.

Songlist: I'm Going Home, A Parting Blessing, Depart In Peace, God Be With You Till We Meet Again, We Are Not Alone

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/sacred/

Review: The text of "Wind Song" is derived from the names for different types and characters of winds found all over the globe. Each wind is presented in its own language, and the mood of each is reflected in the music. Written to excite and intrigue, the creative and improvisatory work for women's choir "'s No Wonder" highlights the double meaning of the title. It's no wonder that winter itself creates snow wonder. The musical structure of "How Can I Keep From Singing?" is similar to the well known American folk hymn, Amazing Grace. A verse of Amazing Grace is included in the last section of this arrangement. "Songs From Gahu is a recreational piece of the Ewe (eh-weh), who live in Ghana and Togo, West Africa. Gahu" is a rich texture of singing, dancing, drumming, drama and the visual impact of colorful costumes. It originated in Nigeria and was brought to Ghana in the 1950's by Ewes who had travelled there, "Gahu" means "expensive dance" and refers to the elaborate nature of the costumes. These four songs (among many others) accompany the dancing and drumming of Gahu.

Songlist: Songs From Gahu, How Can I Keep from Singing?, 's No Wonder, Wind Song

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/treble/

Review: Russell Robinson has now adapted this widely performed madrigal "Sing We and Chant It" for treble choirs. It's superbly reduced to preserve the harmonic and melodic structure of the original 5-part work. The quintessential madrigal, it features dynamic variations, much repetition for quick learning, and an open score for easy reading. Russell Robinson has adapted "Fire, Fire", one of Thomas Morley's most enduring madrigals, for 3-part voices, just right for today's young and developing choirs. The male part has a limited, 5-note range...great for changing voices. The independent vocal lines make it an excellent learning piece and a perfect "first madrigal" for any choir. Carefully tailored to the needs of middle school and junior high singers. "All Ye Who Love Music" was given its English text by Thomas Oliphant in 1837. This arrangement has been lowered one step from the original key of G major to F major. The soprano (Part 1) melody is basically the same; however, Parts II and III have been arranged iin such a way as to limit the range and for ease of singing, while retaining the sound and flavor of the original. As will all Renaissance madrigals, this piece should be sung lightly and lyrically. This trio of fresh, new, madrigals from Jay Althouse is a valuable addition to the choral repertoire mixed choirs. The first is in a traditional madrigal style, with a "fa la la" section and features and echo chorus. The second is lush and lovely, homophonic in nature, with a thought-provoking text. The third is up-tempo and includes an optional hand drum: it could be used as a processional or at a madrigal dinner. Use any or all of the three for concerts, contests, and adjudications.

Songlist: Fire, Fire, Come Celebrate This Festive Day, How Fair a Rose?, All Ye, the Music Makers, Sing We And Chant It

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/3-parts/

Review: New for SSA! Russell Robinson has now adapted this widely performed madrigal "Sing We and Chant It" for treble choirs. It's superbly reduced to preserve the harmonic and melodic structure of the original 5-part work. The quintessential madrigal, it features dynamic variations, much repetition for quick learning, and an open score for easy reading. Russell Robinson has adapted "Fire, Fire", one of Thomas Morley's most enduring madrigals, for 3-part voices, just right for today's young and developing choirs. The male part has a limited, 5-note range...great for changing voices. The independent vocal lines make it an excellent learning piece and a perfect "first madrigal" for any choir. Carefully tailored to the needs of middle school and junior high singers. "All Ye Who Love Music" was given its English text by Thomas Oliphant in 1837. This arrangement has been lowered one step from the original key of G major to F major. The soprano (Part 1) melody is basically the same; however, Parts II and III have been arranged iin such a way as to limit the range and for ease of singing, while retaining the sound and flavor of the original. As will all Renaissance madrigals, this piece should be sung lightly and lyrically. This trio of fresh, new, madrigals from Jay Althouse is a valuable addition to the choral repertoire SSA choirs. The first is in a traditional madrigal style, with a "fa la la" section and features and echo chorus. The second is lush and lovely, homophonic in nature, with a thought-provoking text. The third is up-tempo and includes an optional hand drum: it could be used as a processional or at a madrigal dinner. Use any or all of the three for concerts, contests, and adjudications.

Songlist: Sing We and Chant It, Fire, Fire, All Ye Who Music Love, Come Celebrate this Festive Day, How Fair a Rose, All Ye, the Music Makers

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/madrigals/