SKU: CF.CM9718

ISBN 9781491160978. UPC: 680160919574. Key: D major. English. Manmohan Ghose.

Manmohan Ghose was a professor, poet, and brilliant scholar from Eastern India in the late 19th century. He was educated in London, and was one of the first poets originally from India to publish poetry in English. A Lament is one of his earliest published poems; it progresses with vivid, scenic language from lullaby to permanent goodbye. Much later in life, Manmohan experienced a series of family tragedies that gave him a unique perspective on grief. After returning to India to mourn his father's death and eventually the passing of his wife, he never again made it back to England as he had wished to before his own death. The text of this piece has been paired with a mixolydian modal structure and a blend of musical elements designed to invoke a nostalgic, dream-like atmosphere. In the words of the composer: I like to think of this piece as a metaphorical hall of mirrors. The original 'image' of the melody becomes the source for multiple echoes and imitations that blossom into layers of polyphonic movement. As a nod to the poet's birth place, notes reminiscent of the kan-swar grace note technique of Hindustani classical music add ornamental interest to the piano and voices. This piece functions as an excellent educational introduction or further study into the concept of modes. When presenting this piece to a choir, directors may find it helpful to identify G as the tonal center and follow up with an explanation that G mixolydian has the same key signature as the key of C, because it naturally has no sharps or flats.
Manmohan Ghose was a professor, poet, and brilliant scholar from Eastern India in the late 19th century. He was educated in London, and was one of the first poets originally from India to publish poetry in English. “A Lament” is one of his earliest published poems; it progresses with vivid, scenic language from lullaby to permanent goodbye. Much later in life, Manmohan experienced a series of family tragedies that gave him a unique perspective on grief. After returning to India to mourn his father’s death and eventually the passing of his wife, he never again made it back to England as he had wished to before his own death. The text of this piece has been paired with a mixolydian modal structure and a blend of musical elements designed to invoke a nostalgic, dream-like atmosphere. In the words of the composer: “I like to think of this piece as a metaphorical hall of mirrors. The original ‘image’ of the melody becomes the source for multiple echoes and imitations that blossom into layers of polyphonic movement.” As a nod to the poet’s birth place, notes reminiscent of the kan-swar grace note technique of Hindustani classical music add ornamental interest to the piano and voices. This piece functions as an excellent educational introduction or further study into the concept of modes. When presenting this piece to a choir, directors may find it helpful to identify G as the tonal center and follow up with an explanation that G mixolydian has the same key signature as the key of C, because it naturally has no sharps or flats.

SKU: AP.50158

UPC: 038081573281. Japanese. Words by Emperor Sutoku.

The text of this multicultural feature is a waka (an ancient Japanese poetic form) written by 12th-century ruler Emperor Sutoku. Ruth Morris Gray's original music highlights the poem's depth and explores its theme of separation. Crafted with two minor-key melodies (one sung in Japanese, the other in English) that artfully intertwine at the pinnacle moment. A pronunciation guide is included in the publication.

SKU: MN.50-5999

UPC: 688670559990. English.

Although through-composed (as the nature of the text might dictate), this is an easy piece to learn. A soprano soloist is optional at the beginning. There are many places where the texture is two-part mixed. Choirs of any size will enjoy singing this sweet and tuneful anthem. Duration: 3:30.

SKU: AP.47603

UPC: 038081542966. English.

Cherubini's 18th-century composition has become one of the most recorded and performed masterworks of our time. Dr. Robinson's well-conceived arrangement can be performed either a cappella or with the supportive piano accompaniment, providing flexibility for concert or contest programming. An accessible Latin text (with just four words in total) and sensible voice leading make this an ideal choice for developing choirs.

About Alfred Choral Designs

The Alfred Choral Designs Series provides student and adult choirs with a variety of secular choral music that is useful, practical, educationally appropriate, and a pleasure to sing. To that end, the Choral Designs series features original works, folk song settings, spiritual arrangements, choral masterworks, and holiday selections suitable for use in concerts, festivals, and contests.

SKU: HL.8703400

UPC: 884088563530. 6.75x10.5 inches.

This treasured 17th century text by Robert Herrick is set with an expressive melodic line over a flowing accompaniment and lush choral textures incorporating the full dynamic range. A wonderful addition to Christmas concerts or performances at any time of year! Available separately: SATB, SAB, SSA. Duration: ca. 3:30.