A dynamic Walt Whitman text that celebrates the joys of music. Exploring many themes and styles, this is a fantastic honor choir or festival selection from David Dickau.ÊJo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.ÊDuration: Approx. 4:10.MP3 Recording Choir: Minnesota State University Mankato Concert Choir, David Dickau, conductorÊ

Composer: David C. Dickau

Here is another example of Eric Barnum's masterful blending of great poetry and sensitive music, ending with a soaring soprano solo. A fine festival piece for high school choirs and beyond, this work offers a great palette of expression for the choir. Duration: ca. 5:40.ÊJo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Composer: Eric William Barnum

Award-winning film composer Kenneth Lampl produced this dramatic setting of the celebratory Hebrew text. Rich harmonies and exquisite melodies distinguish this fine composition.

Composer: Kenneth Lampl

A beautiful setting for the advanced choir. Composer Schlenker knows how to create drama in his music-this piece is one of those rare ones that brings chills to the listener.

Composer: Terry Schlenker

This work is set to a stunning love poem, which translates to "You are the Love of my Soul". It was written in the early 1500s by Spanish author Garcilaso de la Vega. It may be performed with or without the accompaniment. For advanced high school or college. Moderately difficult.ÊJo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Composer: Z. Randall Stroope

A stunning setting of this Latin text that speaks of a guardian angel, "Angele Dei" has great melodic interest combined with superb drama. Building to an impassioned climax, it then dissolves the momentum via repeated "amens" colored by interesting harmonies and ultimately comes to rest with all voices now low in their ranges.

Composer: Susan LaBarr

As though in a dream of lost love, the men sing the melody first as the women add color with their "oos;" then the reverse takes place, with the women singing the melody. Finally they join together to bring closure to this beautiful and poignant song for the lonely heart.

Composer: Susan LaBarr

This dramatic piece is rich in harmonic interest, tasteful in the setting of the text, and above all, highly memorable. Sensible ranges and natural voice leading add to the excellence of this composition.

Composer: Alvez Barkoskie

A stunning new treatment by an acknowledged choral master, this haunting setting of the famous folk song highlights the emotional melancholy of the text.ÊJo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Composer: Traditional American

This touching work with a musical emphasis on love is especially appropriate when honoring someone, whether in retirement, remembrance, or gratitude. As always, Susan crafted each vocal line with great care so that all voices feel central to the piece.

Composer: Susan LaBarr

Steven Sametz's remarkable stylized treatment of this traditional spiritual with its powerful solo and haunting choral writing will leave audiences staggered. Requires an accomplished soloist (tenor or possibly alto) and a strong choir.ÊJo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Arranger: Steven Sametz

Winner of the 2010 American Choral Directors Association Raymond W. Brock Memorial Student Composition Contest, the piece was premiered to great acclaim at the 2011 ACDA National Convention. Tennyson used the metaphor of an ocean sand bar to describe the barrier between life and death. In order to reach the shore, the ocean waves must crash against the sandbar, creating a sound that Tennyson describes as the "moaning of the bar." Composer Mills dramatically captures this text. An elegant, provocative piece for the mature choir.

Composer: Michael J Mills

The third movement from the "Of Life and Love" song suite. David Dickau captures the essence of this moody and intensely introspective secular poem by Christina Rossetti.ÊJo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Composer: David C. Dickau

A new setting of the well-loved spiritual by arranger Stacey Gibbs. Gibbs upholds the integrity of the spiritual while still offering some new and unique compositional ideas. Suitable for school choirs and church choirs alike. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Arranger: Stacey V. Gibbs | Performed By: SoundingLight

A moving setting of this George MacDonald text with a dramatic and virtuosic piano accompaniment. Images of nature come to life through expertly-crafted vocal writing and a beautiful melodic line. This work is not to be missed. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Composer: David von Kampen | Performed By: Concordia University A Cappella Choir

Susan LaBarr has taken this lovely contemporary song by Sara Groves and arranged it with taste, drama, and sensitivity for SATB divisi choirs. Ideal for a poignant concert moment, this beautiful love song ends with the text "When you love me, there's nothing I wouldn't try, I might even fly."

Composer: Sara Groves; Susan LaBarr

The text can stand easily on its own as one of the greatest poems by Fred Pratt Green. Jonathan Rodgers has set it to the Welsh folk tune (best known as All through the Night) with such superb craftsmanship it can serve as a powerful church anthem or a stirring concert piece. Thanksgiving, praise, or benediction, it is medium in difficulty but worth every moment of practice.

Arranger: Jonathan Rodgers

Wendell Berry's incredible words have been set in a dynamic and unique work by composer Andrew Maxfield. Stomping, strings, and interesting vocal lines produce a sound that is both antique - like shape note singing - and modern. A timely message of taking care of our earth now so that it will be here for the future. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Arranger: Andrew Maxfield | Performed By: Salt Lake Vocal Artists

Gaur Akelarre tells the story of a coven of witches and warlocks preparing for the night through energetic rhythms and interesting melodic leaps and harmonic passages. A fun challenge that is sure to impress your audience. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.Gaur Akelarre IPA Pronunciation GuideRecording Choir: USC Chamber Singers; Jo-Michael Scheibe, conductor

Composer: Josu Elberdin

Composer Nicholas McKaig elegantly utilizes the haunting refrains of "Taps" to create this harmonically rich arrangement. Programming possibilities abound, and performance impact is ensured!

Composer: General Daniel Butterfield; Nicholas McKaig

Sara Teasdale's poem of thanks inspired a beautiful, melodic setting by composer LaBarr. A quiet opening builds into a gorgeous, resounding climax before coming to a more reflective, thankful close. The piece could provide a tender, thoughtful ending to a concert, or be part of a theme of thanksgiving.

Composer: Susan LaBarr

Once again, composer Brinsmead demonstrates his talent for creating an impressive a cappella piece. The composition dramatically comes to life with each musical phrase beautifully crafted to give distinctive sensitivity to the delivery of the text.

Composer: Daniel Brinsmead

Written in memory of Benjamin, Charlie, and Bailey Bartlett, the composer has created a gorgeous and tender work that truly brings light to a darkened world. The piano, cello, viola, and voices fit together seamlessly. The part-writing will offer a challenge for your choir, while the memorable melody will stick with your singers, being a lifelong lesson that will come back to them in difficult times. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Arranger: Connor J. Koppin | Performed By: Missouri State University Chamber Choir

Terry Schlenker's setting of In Monte Oliveti deeply expresses the sentiments of trial and suffering found in the ancient Latin text. Long, sustained lines mix with rhythmic passages, creating great textural interest. The minor mode and the theme of the poetry make this a unique addition to your program. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.Duration: Approx. 4:30MP3 Recording Choir: St. Martin's Chamber Choir, Timothy Krueger, conductorÊ

Composer: Terry Schlenker

This tremendous work from Philippine composer Nilo Alcala will stun your audiences! Based on a popular children's counting chant from the Southern Philippines, the work employs quick rhythms, clapping, stomping, and shouting to make this a truly unique selection for your choir. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.Kaisa-isa Niyan Pronunciation GuideRecording Choir: Philippine Madrigal Singers; Mark Anthony Carpio, conductor

Composer: Nilo Alcala

David Dickau's delightful treatment of this beloved poem incorporates soaring melodies and great charm that make it an irresistible addition to any library. Conservative ranges with little "divisi" make it accessible for many choirs.

Composer: David C Dickau

Sara Teasdale's poem of hope comes to life in this dramatic setting by the young Aussie composer. The violin accompaniment plaintively illuminates the quiet moments and adds just the right intensity to the explosive ones.

Composer: Daniel Brinsmead

This is the third setting of words by Octavio Paz (Water Night; Cloudburst) from this successful young California composer. Little Birds pays homage to Gabriel Faure with its running piano part and fluid sensual melodies. According to the composer "it holds mysterious and magical effects", imitating delicate birds. Suitable for festival or competition use. The piano part is available separately as well as in the vocal score. Moderately difficult.

Arranger: Eric Whitacre | Composer: Eric Whitacre

An incredible work from Eric Whitacre employing masterful use of the piano. A gorgeous poem by Octavio Paz with innovative use of the voices by Eric Whitacre. This is a unique work even for Whitacre.ÊJo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Composer: Eric Whitacre

Hauntingly beautiful, rich harmonies and arching melodies bring great color and drama to this Latin text.

Composer: Daniel Brinsmead

With a text by e e cummings, an eloquent violin accompaniment, and colorful choral writing, this piece has great artistic merit. Violin part is available as a free download.

Composer: David C Dickau

A bigger than life piece, two texts join to create a dramatic statement. Poet Michael Dennis Browne's "We Call Them Blessed" provides the lyric for a soaring soprano solo that rides above the traditional "Lux aeterna" underlay of the choir.

Composer: David C Dickau

With a text by Michelangelo this music reflects deep spiritual appreciation for beauty and the desire it evokes. An easy and inspiring piece for high school concerts. In English.

Composer: Kurt Knecht

Stacey Gibbs' setting of My God Is a Rock is dynamic and challenging, while still upholding the authenticity of the spiritual. Texturally captivating and unique in its construction. Features two treble trios - a chance to highlight some of your strongest singers. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.Recording Choir: Winston-Salem State University Singing Rams; D'Walla Simmons-Burke, conductor

Arranger: Stacey Gibbs

Journey into "a world of pure imagination" with this tasteful arrangement of the tune from "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." Liberate yourself from ordinary expectations with attention-grabbing part writing and changing meters.

Composer: Various

A tremendously rhythmic and driving setting of this spiritual. Gibbs takes some unexpected harmonic turns throughout, resulting a fresh and unique arrangement. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.

Arranger: Stacey V. Gibbs | Performed By: The University of Alabama at Birmingham Concert Choir

Another dramatic arrangement from the talented Mr. Gibbs, this selection has great rhythmic drive, lots of interplay among the voices, and a powerful ending. Yes, it really rocks!

Composer: Stacey V. Gibbs

Humanity is up against a great deal of adversity in these times. Shelter this Candle is a reminder that we are at our best when we are united, not divided. This SATB work is achievable by young choirs, but deep enough to be sung by more advanced choirs of all ages.Ê

Composer: Connor J. Koppin

Composer Stacey Gibbs lends his magic touch to this favorite spiritual, giving us a fresh approach that is bound to please both singers and audiences.

Composer: Stacey V. Gibbs

A provocative poem inspired this beautiful piece by composer Terry Schlenker. Tight harmonies underlay a dramatic melody in this English-language selection. It incorporates little "divisi" for the men, and the bass part does not require an extended low range.

Composer: Terry Schlenker

Selected for the Jo-Michael Scheibe Sacred Choral Series, Kevin Memley brings new life to a classic Christmas text. The textures, the harmony, the word coloration, these are the elements that lift this setting to compete with the established settings in the choral canon. College choirs and high school choirs will love it, and many church choirs will as well.

Composer: Kevin Memley

Selected for the Jo-Michael Scheibe Sacred Choral Series, Kevin Memley brings new life to a classic Christmas text. The textures, the harmony, the word coloration, these are the elements that lift this setting to compete with the established settings in the choral canon. College choirs and high school choirs will love it, and many church choirs will as well.

Arranger: Kevin Memley | Composer: Kevin Memley

A stunning piece for the advanced choir. Performed at the 2007 ACDA National Convention by the U. of Miami Chorale, Jo-Michael Scheibe, conductor.

Composer: Terry Schlenker

"I think I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree" states the beloved poem by Joyce Kilmer. Marked espressivo, this piece will allow choirs to delight in creating their unique stamp on this beautiful composition.

Composer: Daniel Brinsmead

Written in honor of composer Javier Busto, this work attempts to capture in sound the warmth and blessing of a deep friendship. Typical of Elberdin's chordal Spanish compositional style, this joyful work will be a beautiful addition to any program. Jo-Michael Scheibe Choral Series.Recording Choir: Salt Lake Vocal Artists; Brady Alllred, conductor

Composer: Josu Elberdin

Featuring a cool flugelhorn and vocal solo, this colorful rendition of the beloved spiritual is a unique blues gem. This intense and strongly rhythmic arrangement will have your audiences swaying along in their seats.

Composer: Alexander Lloyd Blake

An elegantly beautiful arrangement of this beloved carol. The melody is the English GREENSLEEVES, refreshingly new to the ear as it veers from the usual tune for this carol. Both men and women get the opportunity to sing the tune is this creative setting.

Composer: Lindsay Goodson

This piece by established pop-gospel singer/composer Sarah Groves tells us "you will lose a lot of things, but you cannot lose my love." A tender love song, this selection is beautifully arranged.

Composer: Sara Groves; Susan LaBarr