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Ola Gjeilo
Ola Gjeilo is one of the most frequently performed composers in the choral world. An accomplished pianist, improvisations over his own published choral pieces have become a trademark of his collaborations across the world. Although Norwegian by birth, it is perhaps Ola's adopted country of America that has influenced the composer's distinctive soundworld the most, evolving a style that is both contemporary and familiar; thick harmonies and rich textures recall film score - music that forms a major part of the composer's inspiration. Ola grew up in a musically eclectic home listening to classical, jazz, pop and folk, a broad background he later incorporated into his classical composition studies at The Juilliard School, and the Royal College of Music, London, and currently as a New York City-based full-time composer. |
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Songbooks, Arrangements and/or Media
Displaying 1-4 of 4 items.
Ola Gjeilo : A Cappella Works for Chorus "Unicornis CaptiIvatur" is an exciting, adventurous piece sets an unusual Latin text to music that ranges in style from renaissance dance to shimmering chorales to chant, and in texture from unison to an expansive eight parts. Requiring highly developed musicianship, this work is sure to become a memorable concert highlight. "Sanctus" is atmospheric and intense, featuring contrasts of ethereal melody lines supported by stately, rich harmonies. Unified by a repeated, modulated motif in the "Hosanna" section, this sensual yet spiritual Sanctus from inimitably original Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo promises to be a highlight of an advanced choir's concert or service. While not easy, repetition of rhythmic and harmonic patterns coupled with the familiar Latin make this much more accessible than it appears. Completely rewarding. Inimitably original, Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo's setting of the Latin text to Psalm 126 "Nisi Dominus" exudes a musical intensity similar to Orff's Carmina Burana. Musically and vocally challenging, it offers great rewards to the most accomplished choirs. A stunning work! "Ubi Caritas" - With a sound at once modern and medieval, this remarkable setting of the familiar Latin text starts in unison and evokes plain chant, and gradually unfolds into wider harmonies and more modern harmonic language. Not unduly challenging in terms of vocal range, it's readily accessible to good high school mixed choirs for concerts or festivals at any time. Songlist: Unicornis CaptiIvatur, Sanctus, Ubi Caritas 
Ola Gjeilo : Christmas Carols Vol 1 Ola Gjeilo is a rising star in modern choral music and has already established a stellar reputation for original and creative work. This collection of his a cappella Christmas arrangements, in two volumes, offers well-known carols in fresh and sophisticated a cappella settings. Volume 1 includes three outstanding arrangements written for choirs with mature ranges and divisi capacity Songlist: O Come O Come, Emmanuel, In The Bleak Widwinter, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen
Ola Gjeilo : Christmas Carols Vol 2 Ola Gjeilo is a rising star in modern choral music and has already established a stellar reputation for original and creative work. This is a second collection of his a cappella Christmas arrangements. The superb, fresh setting of "The Holly and the Ivy" will bring out the very best in your choir. Accessible ranges and simple divisi makes this joyous arrangement suitable for high school level and beyond. The familiar melody of "Away in a Manger" is introduced by a soprano solo, sung by either adult or child. The choir joins with smooth, deep textures that set this exquisite arrangement apart. At the same time innocent and sophisticated, it is equally suitable for school or church. Not to be missed in your holiday program. Songlist: The Holly and the Ivy, Away in a manger, Coventry Carol, The First Nowell
Ola Gjeilo : A Cappella Compositions The music of Manhattan-based Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo (b. 1978) has been performed and recorded in more than 30 countries worldwide in venues such as New York's Carnegie Hall, Los Angeles' Disney Hall, Philadelphia's Kimmel Centeri, Washington DC's Kennedy Center and National Gallery, as well as the Copenhagen and Oslo Opera Houses. His music has been featured on PBS and radio stations across the US. "The Spheres" - This movement is the beginning of a Mass called Sunrise, and, according to its composer, it is to "be performed with the sense of floating in space." A fine challenge for accomplished high school choirs and beyond! The setting uses the Latin Kyrie Eleison text. "Phoenix" - Written for larger, mature choirs, Gjeilo uses the Latin "Agnus Dei" text as support for this symphonic-sounding choral work. With its beautiful color, intonation and phrasing, it is a great choice for advanced high school, college and beyond. "Northern Lights" - Set to the Latin "Pulchra es amica mea" text from Song of Solomon, this easy-to-prepare composition is a great selection for high school, church and community choirs. With music inspired by the aurora borealis atmospheric lights, this song will render a most impressive performance Songlist: Tota Pulchura Es, Northern Lights, The Spheres, Phoenix |
Displaying 1-37 of 37 items.
The sweeping melody line of this work blends smoothly with a sense of symphonic chorale. The Silvestri text begins with the last words in Gjeilo's 2011 Tundra, here painting a world of light. An excellent centerpiece work for high school and beyond, and a sure audience pleaser! Optional string quartet score and parts available separately. Duration: ca. 4:10.
This setting of Hildegard von Bingen's Ave Generosa text uses a hauntingly joyful tonality, paying homage to the mysterious story of Mary. A beautiful middle section is surrounded by contrasting, modal beginning and ending sections. The juxtaposition of sustained and moving moments holds true to the composer's style, while the harmonic structure and vocal construction offer something very fresh. Recording Choir: Cant'Ella; Bine Becker-Beck, conductor
This haunting work from Ola Gjeilo for women's chorus from the album Winter Songs will be a be a beautiful addition to your program any time of the year. Can be performed with piano only or with piano and string quartet.
Performed By: Choir of Royal Holloway
This haunting work from Ola Gjeilo for women's chorus from the album Winter Songs will be a be a beautiful addition to your program any time of the year. Can be performed with piano only or with piano and string quartet.
Performed By: Choir of Royal Holloway
The text for Dreamweaver is based on parts of the well-known Norwegian medieval folk poem Draumkvedet, an epic ballad that has a lot in common with Dante's The Divine Comedy. The protagonist, Olav steson, falls asleep on Christmas Eve and sleeps for thirteen days. He wakes up and rides to church to describe his dreams to the congregation about his brave, beautiful, terrifying, and ultimately redeeming journey through the afterlife. For this composition, the Draumkvedet poem has been adapted into a playful interpretation in English penned by Charles Anthony Silvestri.
This gorgeous setting of the Ecce Novum text by Ola Gjeilo reflects the gentle wonder of the story of Christmas. From Ola Gjeilo's album Winter Songs. Can be performed with piano only or with piano and string quartet.
Performed By: Choir of Royal Holloway
An absolutely stunning work from Ola Gjeilo featuring improvised piano and tenor saxophone. The composer has set the text with care through a melody and accompaniment that paints a soundscape of emotion for the listener. A suggested accompaniment is included, or the instrumentalists may improvise throughout. Will make a stunning closer for any concert. Alternatives to tenor saxophone part (soprano sax/trumpet/flugelhorn in Bb/alto sax i Eb) and separate piano part available for free download at olagjeilo.com/eveningprayer. Length: 5:55
This moving, lush and symphonic work with piano and string quartet has a contrasting brighter, lighter feel than Dark Night of the Soul. Added contemporary text describes the divine spirit of all art. An outstanding work! Available separately: SSAATTBB, String Quartet (Full Score and Parts), String Quartet (Full Score only). Duration: ca. 10:30.
Set to the Latin "Pulchra es amica mea" text from Song of Solomon, this easy-to-prepare composition is a great selection for high school, church and community choirs. With music inspired by the aurora borealis atmospheric lights, this song will render a most impressive performance
Using the Latin Pulchra es amica mea text from Song of Solomon, this composition is a great selection for high school women's choruses and above. With music inspired by the aurora borealis atmospheric lights, this song will render a most impressive performance. SSAA version written for Elektra Women's Choir.
Performed By: Elektra Women's Choir
Using the Latin "Pulchra es amica mea" text from Song of Solomon, this composition is a great selection for high school men's choruses and above. With music inspired by the aurora borealis atmospheric lights, this song will render a most impressive performance.
Written for larger, mature choirs, Gjeilo uses the Latin "Agnus Dei" text as support for this symphonic-sounding choral work. With its beautiful color, intonation and phrasing, it is a great choice for advanced high school, college and beyond.
A stunning concert opener or closer. The Exsultate, Jubilate text encompasses a positive message of joy and peace. For ambitious choirs. Recorded by the University of Miami Frost Chorale, Dr. Jo-Michael Scheibe, conductor.Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.
Ola Gjeilo's three-work set of Ubi Caritas settings is now complete with Sacred Heart. Musically independent from his other two Ubi Caritas settings, Sacred Heart can stand alone or be performed with the two previous works. A lovely string quartet accompaniment balances with the choir, making this a stunning and peaceful adaptation of such a thoughtful text. Length: 4:55 String Quartet Full Score and Parts available separately: WW1529A
This work is atmospheric and intense, featuring contrasts of ethereal melody lines supported by stately, rich harmonies. Unified by a repeated, modulated motif in the "Hosanna" section, this sensual yet spiritual Sanctus from inimitably original Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo promises to be a highlight of an advanced choir's concert or service. While not easy, repetition of rhythmic and harmonic patterns coupled with the familiar Latin make this much more accessible than it appears. Completely rewarding!
Ola Gjeilo's first publication for developing voices features a new text by acclaimed lyricist, Charles Anthony Silvestri. Exploring the beauties of each of the four seasons, the words have been wonderfully set for children's choir (SSA) by the composer, with a supportive piano part and optional flute part that soars above. Don't miss this wonderful selection. Duration: Approx. 3:05
This stunning work requires a mature SSAATTBB choir and a string soloist to fulfill the composer's intentions. Looking to write an a cappella work with a symphonic, abundant feel, the Latin text was selected for this spiritual concert work. Duration: ca. 6:00.
Walt Whitman's unabashed optimism, exuberance, and unwavering confidence in our deeper humanity is beautifully portrayed through music in Gjeilo's setting of excerpts of the Song of the Universal poem. For string orchestra, piano, and choir, this work will be a grand addition to your women's choir repertoire. Length: 11:30 Full Score and String Orchestra Parts available separately: WW1529A
An SATB adaptation of Ola Gjeilo's Song of the Universal. Walt Whitman's unabashed optimism, exuberance, and unwavering confidence in our deeper humanity is beautifully portrayed through music. For string orchestra, piano, and choir, this work will be a grand addition to your choir's repertoire.Recording is SSAA version. Duration: Approx. 11 minutes Recording (SSAA version): Westminster Choir College Symphonic Choir; Amanda Quist, conductor
An extremely joyful and uplifting setting of this well-loved Christmas text. Gjeilo has crafted a beautiful melody that seems as if it was always meant to exist with these lyrics. Vocally accessible, this will be a good choice for both schools and churches, along with more advanced choirs. Can be sung in English or Norwegian. Recording Choir: Sofia Vokalensemble; Bengt Ollen, conductor
Still originated as a piece from Ola's popular solo piano album Night, later arranged for choir by Geoff Lawson. Voces8's premiere recording can be found on Apple Music, Spotify, and all major platforms.
Arranger: Voces8 Performed By: Voces8
This spiritual, extended work uses the liturgical Latin text. The four movements bring us on a metaphysical journey from the heavens to earth, from the echo of The Spheres (Kyrie) to Identity & The Ground (Sanctus) with its earthly themes. Neither expressly sacred nor secular, this is an exquisite work for advanced high school level and beyond. Available separately: SSAATTBB, String Orchestra (Full Score and Parts), String Orchestra (Full Score only). Duration: ca. 32:00.
Based on a chorale motif from the last movement of his Sunrise Mass, the composer has developed the beautiful melody into a free-standing anthem. Optional String Quartet or Ensemble available. Duration: ca. 3:30.
This superb, fresh setting will bring out the very best in your choir. Accessible ranges and simple divisi makes this joyous arrangement suitable for high school level and beyond.
This refreshing work from Ola Gjeilo employs a folk-like sound to capture Yeats' wonderfully descriptive words about the Lake Isle of Innisfree. The movement in the piano, the strumming of the guitar, and the richness of the strings work together with the voices to create the imagery of a long and pleasant journey.
Poetry By: William Butler Yeats
A flowing piano accompaniment and melody that capture the mystery of this beautiful Rossetti text. From Ola Gjeilo's album Winter Songs. Can be performed with piano only or with piano and string quartet.
Performed By: Choir of Royal Holloway
A flowing piano accompaniment and melody that capture the mystery of this beautiful Rossetti text. From Ola Gjeilo's album Winter Songs. Can be performed with piano only or with piano and string quartet.
Performed By: Choir of Royal Holloway
This movement is the beginning of a Mass called Sunrise, and, according to its composer, it is to "be performed with the sense of floating in space." A fine challenge for accomplished high school choirs and beyond! The setting uses the Latin Kyrie Eleison text
A stunning composition that combines three sections, all on the beautiful Maria text, each section with its own expression. It gives the opportunity for the choir to express phrase and dynamics, text and music - a truly rewarding experience.
Scenes from the composer's native Norway - specifically the Hardangervidda mountain plateau - inspired this poem by Charles Anthony Silvestri. Barren and intensely beautiful, this Norwegian land feels sacred, a notion captured in Silvestri's lyrics. Gjeilo has created a stunning soundscape that will be a favorite of your women's chorus. An excellent festival choice. With piano accompaniment and optional string quartet (full score and string quartet parts available separately). Duration: approx. 3:30.
Country: Norway
Like with Gjeilo's widely performed, stunning settings for SATB and SSAA of the Ubi Caritas text, the TTBB version brings out yet another color and quality, reflective of the chant style. A great selection for any men's choir, this will be a favorite of the audiences as well. Duration: ca. 3:00. Recording: Zero8; Rasmus Krigstrom, conductor
Now available for treble choirs, this readily accessible setting sounds at once modern and medieval. Starting in unison and evoking plain chant, it gradually unfolds into wider harmonies and more modern harmonic language.
Called a sequel to the first Ubi Caritas, this new work has a clear resemblance to the original work. The recurring melody line leads to a divisi treatment of the continued text. If you already like Gjeilo's skillful style, this work will be the perfect addition to your concert program! Duration: ca. 3:35.
Looking for something absolutely extraordinary? This exciting, adventurous piece sets an unusual Latin text to music that ranges in style from renaissance dance to shimmering chorales to chant, and in texture from unison to an expansive eight parts. Requiring highly developed musicianship, this work is sure to become a memorable concert highlight.
Ola Gjeilo has pulled from his Norwegian heritage and used the lovely Solrenning Saele tune to set a new text by Charles Anthony Silvestri. The text speaks of winter as a time of reset; a breath before the rebirth of spring. An excellent secular work for your winter concert.
Performed By: Choir of Royal Holloway
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