A finalist composition in the 2006 New York Sings! A Composer's Symposium, this work is an energetic and rhythmically exciting setting of E. E. Cummings's take on excess noise in modern society. In it, the power of singing is echoed and restored through the blessing of silence.

Composer: Dominick DiOrio

Winner of the Cantate Chamber Singers 2006 Young Composer's Competition, this setting of Psalm 98 highlights both the rhythmic and lyrical qualities of the text through exciting use of the vocal registers and the piano writing. The simple but effective ABAB form makes this an excellent piece for opening or closing a program.

Composer: Dominick DiOrio

The cantiga de amigo is a folk poem whose speaker is an adolescent girl, quite often in the midst of discovering love for the first time, and often confiding her innermost thoughts to her madre. Movement 1: after an introduction imitating the sound of guitars, a young girl realizes the power of love. Movement 2: as the accompaniment suggests gentle waves, a rather suggestive and delightfully imaginative invitation is offered. Movement 3: passion gives way to resignation. Movement 4: as the convent beckons, and amid strains of her own Dies Irae, a young girl bemoans her fate. Movement 5: a wish for the heart to soar as high as the birds.

Composer: Paul Carey

With clarinet and cello parts suitable for good high school players, this setting of the familiar Rossetti text is perfect for advanced high school choirs and beyond. A brief unison beginning quickly expands into colorful polyphonic writing, which includes counterpoint with both solo instruments and piano. The independent vocal lines along with the contemporary harmonies will make for a wonderful teaching piece and a satisfying concert selection.

Composer: Robert Sieving

Choosing texts by two New Mexico poets, these two pieces, originally written for harp, are perfect for non-holiday, winter concert programs intended to uplift the spirit. The message of hope and renewal, intrinsic to the winter solstice, will resonate with singers and audiences everywhere.

Composer: Paul Carey

Underlying the simplicity of Margaret Atwood's poem is a complex picture of the human condition. Treble choirs ranging from high school to professional will enjoy this musical setting as it shifts from happily animated passages to more deeply expressive sections as the dialogue between parent and child is musically explored.

Composer: Paul Carey