Set to a Civil War poem, we are implored to “dance for beauty, dance for laughter, dance for love – soft falls the rain, bare feet dance me home” in this delightful and charming composition. Lovely piano accompaniment adds to and supports the voices. Wonderful opportunity to explore lyrical singing, phrasing and mixed meters in this very accessible work.
Beautiful melodies are shared between the voices, and a dramatic piano accompaniment highlights the musical texture and brings unity to the composition. “When music sounds, gone is the earth I know, and all her lovely things even lovelier grow…”
Agnus Dei is the fifth movement from Narverud's Misse de Cinque Terre, but stands on its own as a unique setting of this traditional Latin text. The work is inspired by five Italian coastline villages, and the music represents a visualization of the landscape. Beginning with fortissimo cluster chords that mirror the closely knit bundles of houses, then a lilting melody that represents the gentle ebb and flow of the sea. The ascending “Ah's” are repeated and passed from voice to voice imitating the glistening Italian sun on the blue waters of the Mediterranean. Given a good acoustic venue, this a cappella work will be a stunning addition to any concert.
A modern and rhythmic setting of the traditional Latin text for Tenor-Bass choirs. Not difficult, but highly effective; choirs can ring out with this glorious piece.
A beautiful Holy Week anthem
TTBB
Mark Hayes's brilliant celebration of music's power to uplift, refresh, and recharge our lives is full of endless excitement and boundless vitality. A dynamic optional orchestration provides the effective backdrop for a scintillating Broadway sound in this perfect festival or concert opener. (The sample recording for this piece is the SATB voicing.)
Like an engine of festive praise, this choral juggernaut bursts through expectations with fresh harmonies and clusters of sonic joy. Breaking forth from the opening notes, the full power of the chorus is explored with vocal division throughout the whole ensemble. Powerful in its impact, the anthem crescendos to a statement of the Doxology and then drives with unrelenting jubilation to the final Amen! For concert hall or sanctuary usage.
After opening with a deeply reflective solo, this offering from Craig Courtney turns into a boisterous gospel anthem. Independent parts are used in this arrangement, and some optional a cappella singing is also present. Add the optional instrumental ensemble by Mark Hayes for a true gospel feel.
Brave men who work while others sleep, Who dare while others fly… They build a nation’s pillars deep And lift them to the sky. So ends the text of this extraordinary piece. Dramatic accompaniment helps deliver the profound message. Men and boys will love singing this.
Mr. Gibbs puts the men to test with this blockbuster of a piece. With a soloist, and at times a solo trio, and seven parts vying for center stage, this piece is a great closer. It is bound to get an audience on their feet as the singers bid them Fare Ye Well.
