Andy Beck : Fanga Alafia

This lively welcome song traditionally accompanies the West African fanga dance. Built on the familiar tune (plus some new material and a few English words), this general music class favorite is fully developed as a choral arrangement. Scattered handclaps, syncopated rhythms, and bright harmonies make this well-crafted setting a joy to perform! A modulating breakdown section in the middle offers the opportunity to incorporate the dance. Downloadable percussion parts are available online.

Arranger: Andy Beck

Beethoven's "greatest hit" is reimagined with a funky twist that your singers won't be able to resist! Its iconic short-short-short-long hook springboards into a rhythmic groove, complete with clapping, snapping, and vocal syllables that imitate a rock band. It's a novelty nod to one of the greatest composers of all time!

Arranger: Tom Anderson | Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven

Written for the 30th Anniversary of the Milwaukee Children's Choir by founding director Emily Crocker, this song of unity features original words by John Jacobson and a simple Latin phrase meaning "love is everything." Body percussion and optional congas capture the joyful world-music groove. Not to be missed!

Arranger: Emily Crocker | Composer: John Jacobson

"The wind is cold, the branches bare, but hearts are warm and bright." Despite the chill of December, it'' all about hope, peace, and kindling kindness. As you'd expect from a round, a simple melody easily stacks into a complete choral texture. Even better, the conservative-range tune ensures a good fit for all voices. Groups of any age will master the canonic form and enjoy delivering the heartfelt, non-holiday message.

Arranger: Mark Burrows

This inspiring anthem reminds us that dreams create endless possibilities. An arpeggiated accompaniment, conservative vocal ranges, and a pop-style melody make this easy to learn and a joy to sing. Opens with an optional solo---"Dream a dream, plant a seed, hoping someday it will grow."

Arranger: Nathaniel Stine

Get out your bobby socks and saddle shoes for this 1950s-style reimagining of "Deck the Hall" with a brand new melody. The classic doo-wop harmonies and rock 'n' roll groove are easy to grasp and sure to entertain. Don't miss the choreography available on With a Song!

Arranger: Ruth Morris Gray

Familiar words, new melody. Ruth's cheerful a cappella setting of the yuletide text accentuates the "peace on earth" lyric, adding a harmonically rich bridge on just those words. Crisp choral "ding dong" entrances, a melodic twist in the middle, and a tuneful final descant decorate the otherwise strophic verses. Add to the festivity (and anchor the minor-key tonality) with optional tubular bells or chimes.

Arranger: Ruth Morris Gray | Composer: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

This enduring Hanukkah song by folk trio Peter, Paul, and Mary urges us to uphold the legacies of those who fought for freedom by promoting social justice. Jack's contemporary arrangement is tastefully updated in three accessible voicings. Perform with piano alone, the folk-inspired SoundTrax, or invite a guitarist to strum along. "Light one candle to bind us together with peace as the song in our hearts."

Arranger: Jack Zaino | Composer: Peter Yarrow

"Music gives . . . life to everything." Powerful words by Plato are given a contemporary sound in this buoyant piece by Mark Burrows. Soaring with radiant energy, it uses colorful harmonies and a driving 3/4 meter to extol the virtues of music. A central chant-like section sets the familiar phrase "Where words fail, music speaks" in Latin. Highly recommended for concert, contest, or festival.

Arranger: Mark Burrows

Paint a peaceful winter scene with the tender vocal lines and ethereal piano accompaniment of this striking original. A gentle ode to heavenly stars and falling snow, it is appropriate for any winter concert and features the kind of harmony you love to teach and sing. As a special touch, perform the final verse a cappella to heighten the quiet wonder. "Hearts take hold, dreams take flight, on this sweet silent night."

Arranger: Andy Beck