Kathleen McGuire has created an outstanding arrangement of the glorious song "Harriet Tubman", originally penned by Walter Robinson, about the famous leader of the famous Underground Railroad. A cappella vocals that build with a "come on up" followed by rhythmic vocals under the hypnotic melody. Optional cabaca part suggested. Layered under that is the sound of percussion imitating a train and vocal nuances resembling the sound of chains and also a train whistle. Incredibly powerful and moving! It's a must for every choir's library. Eric Lane Barnes has a very unique writing style and he has done it again with the choral, Glee! This creative a cappella gem is quite entertaining, hearkening back to the days of the glee club songs of Yale and Harvard. This work is an excellent tool to teach harmonics. Listen to the middle section that contains a sequence of ascending diminished 7th chords with lyrics announcing the definition of the word, "glee." Novel, yet eloquent in its style and performance possibilities, Glee is "gleefully" a winner for any program. There is an early American feel to "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" that coordinates wonderfully with the text and adds a sense of authenticity to the whole. This treatment is a welcome addition to other versions of this piece because of its unique approach. Use during Pentecost or for general use. For harvest time, consider this medley of Thanksgiving favorites arranged by Chuck Bridwell. Contrasting sections include We Gather Together set to the tune Ash Grove, a fresh harmonization of Now Thank We All Our God sung a cappella, and a lovely arrangement of Handel's Thanks Be to Thee. Gracious and festive, Songs of Thanksgiving is the perfect adoration medley for the season of gratitude. The sturdy American folksong "Meeting Is Over" has been given new life through the skillful arranging of James Clemens. Maintaining the hollow, open harmonies and steady rhythmic movement of Early American music, Clemens adds some fresh counterpoints and syncopations to really liven things up. Meeting Is Over is dynamic! |
