'My Hazara People is a setting of two texts the title work by Shukria Rezaei a young Afghan poet and Lalai lalai babe bacha shikar rafta (Baby's father went hunting) a traditional Hazari lullaby. Although their characters are entirely different the two poems share much in common. The importance of family and home and beyond that connection with country and heritage are at the centre of both. Shukria's poem is a direct expression of love and despair for Afghanistan with intimate moments of terror - a cup falling from her mother's hand during an explosion her aunt fainting - set against the suffering of Hazaras across the world. In the contextof this devastating contemporary experience Lalai lalai is nostalgic and poignant - open gates straw latches a sleeping child. The tune of the lullaby is heard in two highly contrasted versions. For Shukria's words it is dark and restrained a repeating rhythm illustrating the Hazara's seemingly never-ending pain and for Lalai lalai it is bright and joyful with sounds of the hunt a crackling fire and a gentle chorus as the child is rocked. A further thread runs through the music - a quotation of my favourite traditional Afghan Herati lullaby Allah Hu (God is great) reflecting Shukria's reference to her people's religious heritage. I have adapted the text at the end of Lalai Lalai to bring it into the Shukria's world a reminder that each innocent person caught up in conflict is a mother  a brother a sister a father a daughter .... kids like us. The work exists in two versions for voice and piano and voice and strings. The former was premiered by Charlotte Tetley (mezzo-soprano) and Graeme Bailey (piano) on 20 June 2018 at Somerville College Oxford as part of a panel discussion on women refugees. The work was commissioned by the Orchestra of St. Johns. I am indebted to Shukria for allowing to set her poem and to Cayenna Ponchione for inviting me to be part of this

A powerful song of unity wraps the audience in passionate music and meaningful words. The main theme in a lilting meter gradually builds to an impressive climax, delivering a credo for the worshipping church: Grace is our music; love is our theme. Hope is our message; peace is our dream. Wonderfully conceived for church dedication moments or heritage observances, this sermon in song will minister to the community of faith and its mission.

from Of Faith and Freedom-Uses: Patriotic Memorial Day Heritage Church Anniversary Concert UnityScripture: Psalm 133:1; I Corinthians 1:10Composed especially for the town of Rock Hall Maryland for their tri-centennial this anthem brings together the concepts of legacy and destiny and achieves a prayer of thanksgiving as well as a challenge for the future. A powerful ballad style and a memorable chorus provide the musical foundations while themodulatory bridge builds intensity to a bold exclamatory conclusion. For civic gatherings or church heritage events this is an essential choral resource.

Uses: General Church Heritage Unity Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-9: Colossians 3:16 Comfortable and assuring this folk-gospel octavo is an engaging way to introduce a message of hope into your worship music. The early American feel adorned with the bluegrass consort creates an eventful tone. The text reflects our reliance on God's unfailing grace in our lives and the quote from the well known text of Amazing Grace is the perfect finishing touch! Score and Parts (fdl mndln ac gtr str bs) available as a digital download.

Uses: General Reformation Church AnniversaryScripture: I Corinthians 3:11; Isaiah 28:16In celebration of the church and it's legacy of hope this medley brings together some of Christendom's mostbeloved texts and tunes. Regal and sturdy music inspires the congregation in its mission with engaging harmonies and solid piano and brass support. Quintessential Reformation repertoire this selection provides a sound track for acelebration of our heritage of faith and service. Available separately: SATB StudioTrax CD (Accomp. SplitTrax Perf.) Orchestration (score & parts for Trumpet 1 & 2 Horn Trombone Tuba Timpani). Duration: ca. 3:47.

Uses: General Scripture: Matthew 7:25-26 Luke 6:47-49 I Corinthians 10:4 The confidence found in this classic Luther text is mirrored in a sturdy musical treatment. An almost early American jauntiness accompanies the arrangement with the optional addition of a snare drum and two flutes. The inclusion of The Solid Rock is an oasis of ministry in this musical journey and opens this anthem up for use in church heritage or Reformation worship gatherings. Strong! Parts (fl 1-2 snare) available as a digital download.

Incorporating the beloved hymn Rise Up O Church of God this celebratory anthem of praise is a jubilant assertion of our worship heritage. Lilting in an infectious 6/8 meter this anthem embraces both classical and contemporary musical elements. Glorious!

Chosen as the 2009 recipient of the George Washington Honor Medal awarded by the Freedoms Foundation of Vally Forge this compostion is the only musical setting of the inscription on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in ArlingtonCemetery. “Here Rests in Honored Glory” exemplifies the essence of the National Awards by promoting an understanding and appreciation for our country's rich heritage and unique freedoms.

Uses: General Reformation Festival Church HeritageScripture: Psalm 46One of the great hymns of the faith is visited with an exciting setting of power and majesty. Each verse is treated withthoughtful originality using the words as a springboard for colorful and artful musical moments. Festive brass percussion and a rousing piano accompaniment complete the package making this one of the definitive arrangements of atrue classic hymn. Available separately: SATB TTBB Brass Orchestration. Duration: ca. 4:10.