For the new Richard Bjella Choral Series, here is a powerful concert arrangement of the Christmas Spiritual. This setting features a trio or small group that has the artistic freedom so important in this style of music. Improvisation is also granted to the conductor when interpreting this setting.

Arranger: Stacey C. Gibbs | Composer: Traditional

The New York Voices hit a home run with their beautiful and poignant rendition of this song. Fred Sturm has taken that arrangement and made it appropriate for concert choir. This is a powerful addition to the new Richard Bjella Choral Series.

Arranger: New York Voices | Composer: Paul Simon | Performed By: New York Voices

What a powerful juxtaposition of two iconic African American spirituals: Wayfaring Stranger and I Want Jesus to Walk with Me. I am a stranger in a strange land...how long must we cry out? This impactful work is simultaneously a cry of lament, a song of personal invitation, and a statement of assurance. Echos of past and current hardship (slavery, immigration, pandemic, injustice, isolation) are voiced by choir and soloists throughout this compelling piece and allow multiple perspectives into the text. A journey of sorrow and hope--worthy of the finest choirs.

Composer: Kyle Pederson