SKU: AP.48448
UPC: 038081552712. English.
An emblem that transcends cultures, religions, and time periods, the flickering candle offers a message of joy, hope, and peace that can reach every human heart. Start with the spark of a single voice on the opening solo, and then light your choir's inner flame when the entire group joins. Simple, with a folk-like quality; artful, as the composer explores dark versus light, major versus minor.
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: AP.48851
UPC: 038081561752. English. Andy Beck.
The traditional Ubi Caritas text is uniquely set as an uptempo jazz waltz. Just one sentence in Latin plus a few English lyrics make it clear that this song is all about charity and love. As you've come to expect from this composer, the canon is a true skill-builder---with a modal melody that moves from unison to two and eventually three independent layers (using descant singers for 2-part choirs). Don't miss the jazzy flute obbligato available free online.
SKU: AP.45671
UPC: 038081514109. English. Sal Sabella.
A heartfelt holiday love letter to the memories and special feelings that come only at Christmas. This contemporary ballad boasts a light groove and memorable hook that will bring warmth in winter. Invite your audience to sing along on the final full-voiced refrain. Recording provided by Western Michigan University's Gold Company, directed by Greg Jasperse.
SKU: WD.080689705120
UPC: 080689705120.
In the past twenty years, worship styles in many churches have transformed, emphasizing a personal worship that strives for intimacy with the Father. This renewal led some ministries, perhaps unintentionally, to abandon the great hymns of our faith in favor of newly composed worship songs. Other ministries, in an effort to create a balanced worship style, mixed the new with the old, sometimes with results that only amplified the differences between the two. Hymns for Praise & Worship bridges the stylistic gap between modern-day worship songs and the hymns of our Christian heritage. A select advisory board of active music ministers, Word Music staff and key choral arrangers were assembled to pinpoint fifty-six hymns from the vast array of hymnody, not only for their musical quality, but for the messages that they bring to worshippers today. Veteran choral arrangers John E. Coates and Travis Cottrell have been creating new settings of hymns for their own congregations for years. Their experience as worship leaders brought not only musicality, but also congregational and choral pragmatism to each new arrangement in Hymns for Praise & Worship. With all of the same editions and features as the Songs for Praise & Worship series, this collection is designed to work hand-in-hand with existing resources for worship. Various stylistic changes make these settings flow easily, appeal to the modern ear, and correlate with the styles of contemporary praise & worship songs. Throughout this book you will encounter variations from traditional time signatures, intuitive syncopated rhythms, and substituted chords and harmonies. Even the few hymns with more traditional settings are treated in a manner that takes the congregation on a journey through the verses, sometimes in a more through-composed manner, and usually culminating in a climactic conclusion. Each of the changes was not implemented arbitrarily, but with the goal of making the timeless messages of each hymn leap from the page in new and exciting ways. Two added features of Hymns for Praise & Worship are the demonstration and accompaniment recordings. While the songs in the collection are well known, the new arrangements are not. The staff of Word Music felt that it was vital to provide audible resources to teach and lead worship to best communicate the desires of the arrangers. All of the core editions (Choir/Worship Team, Worship Planner, Keyboard Edition, Guitar Edition) reflect the verses and voicings used on the recordings.
SKU: AP.46422
UPC: 038081528014. English.
This contemporary gospel-style rouser denounces oppression and serves as a choral anthem for equal rights. A confident solo voice helps deliver a determined message in the unwavering words of Maya Angelou. If performing as a set, an alternate ending segues directly into the closing movement of Like Dust I Rise. When performing separately, Mark Hayes includes an upward modulation that propels us to the final, most spirited refrain.
SKU: AP.47671
UPC: 038081543642. English. Traditional Carol.
It's a high-energy, gospel-infused take on one of the most treasured Christmas carols of all time. Riveting rhythmic syncopation, triadic choral harmonies that climb in inversion, and plenty of melodic blue notes all add up to . . . well, sheer joy! Your piano player really gets to show off on the fully notated riff-like accompaniment. Plus, you can download free bass and drumset parts for the full effect. Not to be missed!
SKU: AP.46743
UPC: 038081541464. English.
Contains accompaniment tracks for 23 choral publications. Titles: Ave Maria * Cardinal * Children Will Run * Dixit Dominus * Dona Nobis Pacem * Fill Your Life with Music * For the Beauty of the Earth * Go Down, Moses * Hallelujah, Amen * I Saw a Ship Go Sailing * If All the Skies * Little David, Play on Your Harp * May a Rainbow Run Beside You * The Music-Makers * Old Joe Clark * Plaudite * A Pleasant Life * Psallite Hodie * Sing, Sing! * The Stars Are with the Voyager * That I Loved * When I First Put This Uniform On * Winter.
SKU: AP.47679
UPC: 038081543727. English. Adam Podd; Matt Podd.
The shimmering winter-themed text and lilting 6/8 rhythms dance right off the page in this contemporary choral like none other. Accessible yet unexpected harmonies provide warmth, and a full dynamic range takes us on a journey from a single voice to full ensemble singing. The breathtaking add-on section weaves three independent lines into one radiant tapestry of sound and suggests that the light we search for may be found within.
SKU: AP.41604
UPC: 038081466842. Spanish. Cathryne E. Parks.
The catchy introduction hooks you right away, and the Latin groove seals the deal! There are only a handful of Spanish words, making it a cinch for developing choirs to sing this multicultural Christmas original. Layer percussion instruments on rhythmic ostinatos---or perform with our fiesta-inspired CD!
SKU: AP.47641
UPC: 038081543345. English.
A folk-infused ballad celebrating the miracle of Hanukkah. Originally recorded by 90s pop sensation Lisa Loeb, this reflective change-of-pace choral features a rhythmic yet mellow accompaniment and straightforward but expressive vocal parts. Whether you perform with the guitar-inspired piano part, the optional SoundTrax CD, or a folk ensemble of your own, this is truly a special touch for holiday concerts.Because of changes in our school's schedule and the taking away of the music requirement in 7th and 8th grade, our choir numbers have dropped significantly. Searching for music that has educational value and that the choir will sound good on (we know that's important for the parents and faculty) I came across Light arranged by Andy Beck. This quickly became a favorite of my choir! The kids are excited to rehearse it every day and the sound they are achieving fits the folk-like feel of the piece. We are using the 2-Part version. Being 7th and 8th graders, of my nine boys, three are unchanged voices (singing alto as written) and my other six are in varying stages of voice change. Those six are bouncing back and forth between alto and soprano parts, singing them down an octave. Thank you for providing a great piece for the holiday season!Matt AlbrechtChoir DirectorCopley-Fairlawn Middle School
About Alfred Pop Choral Series
The Alfred Pop Series features outstanding arrangements of songs from the popular music genre. These publications provide exciting, contemporary, and educationally-sound arrangements for singers of all ages, from elementary through high school, to college and adult choirs.
SKU: AP.48872
UPC: 038081561967. English. Traditional Hebrew Folk Song.
An optional clarinet adds a festive flourish to this traditional Hebrew folk song arranged expressly for 3-part mixed singers. This specifically targeted voicing pays close attention to the most appropriate range and tessitura for developing voices, especially the guys. Four short lines comprise an entirely Hebrew text that celebrates the miracle of Hanukkah and the spinning dreidel (a pronunciation guide is included). S'vivon sov, sov, sov means Dreidel turn, turn, turn. Excitement abounds throughout, especially when a surprise slower section accelerates back to the first lively tempo, and then even faster for the final phrase.
SKU: AP.45705
UPC: 038081514444. English.
This sparkling contemporary carol in 5/4 time is a fresh addition to any winter program! Features an evocative text that speaks to special sights, sounds, and feelings of the holidays. Choirs will find the harmonies both approachable and satisfying.
SKU: AP.50209
UPC: 038081573793. English. Andy Beck.
It's your lucky day! Here's a perky partner song that pairs new words and music with the traditional I'm Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover. Perfect for choirs just learning to sing in parts, both short songs are first heard on their own before everything fits together. Check out the free ChoreoTrax video for staging ideas.
SKU: AP.48918
UPC: 038081562421. English. American Folk Song.
All aboard for a bouncy rendition of the authentic American train song, a song that has been recorded by many folk artists through the generations. The largely pentatonic tune truly chugs along and includes a few blue notes, adding to the fun. Greg's perky arrangement offers independent voice parts, engaging rhythmic counterpoint, and even a few vocal train whistles---woo woo! No matter which voicing suits your group, be sure to consider adding choreography (available free online), and the toe-tapping SoundTrax accompaniment.
SKU: AP.50226
UPC: 038081573960. English.
Clap your hands like a rolling river. Stomp your feet like the mighty sea. Here's a rockin' barn burner that pulls out all of the stops! Gospel-style harmonies, a body percussion breakdown, more than one upward modulation and a layered vocal stack are sure to bring your audience to their feet. Don't miss the free ChoreoTrax video for easy-to-teach staging.
SKU: AP.49773
UPC: 038081568607. English. Words by John Jacobson.
One part Jacobson creativity, and one part Kirby jazz. Kids will adore this chart that's not only a fresh holiday feature, but also a solid introduction to beginning scat singing. Designed with developing groups in mind, but enjoyable for any one. Perform with the swingin' SoundTrax or a live rhythm section (guitar, bass, and drumset SoundPax). As a special bonus, John's choreography is printed in the music.
SKU: AP.48813
UPC: 038081561370. English.
A solo voice opens this moving anthem of individuality that doubles as a celebration of music. When all the voices join, singers echo warm phrases from part to part and build to an important realization at the bridge: If we all sing together, our songs will become like a symphony. You'll feel a firm tug of the heartstrings as the fully harmonized final verse builds to an impressive cadence and a momentous fermata. An awesome opener or closer in any voicing, and one you won't soon forget.
SKU: AP.48892
UPC: 038081562162. English. Traditional Sea Ballad.
Clamoring to join the sea song craze? Here's an exceptionally well prepared traditional sea ballad that is equal parts authentic and enjoyable. Dating back to the mid 1700s, this rollicking nautical adventure (probably from England or Scotland) tells the story of a ship's captain who spots a mermaid in the distance. Since mermaids were thought to bring bad luck, the whole crew panics! A chorus of sailors, a captain, the chef, and a parrot take turns expressing their woe---often in a comedic way. Singers will quickly be hooked, so directors can sink into the educational merits to uncover many hidden treasures. View the arranger's intro video for even more history and teaching ideas.
SKU: AP.49766
UPC: 038081568539. English.
When considering various winter holidays, what is the common thread? A candle and a song. Beautiful in its simplicity, here's a quiet celebration crafted to resonate universally. Mark's delicate melody and sweet sonorities float effortlessly over a flowing piano accompaniment. With readable rhythms, easy to learn notes, and sensible vocal ranges, it's intentionally uncomplicated so that the message of the text will clearly speak. Hushed and heartfelt, a memorable moment.
SKU: AP.45621
UPC: 038081513607. English.
This change-of-pace charmer recreates the conversation between a pair of birds as they observe children singing. The birds consider what the sounds are, why the sounds are made, and most importantly, Is it music? Kids will embrace telling the animated story with playful tempo shifts, dramatic fermatas, comic interjections, and a tender final realization that, Yes, it's music! Optional clarinet and string bass parts are available for free online.
SKU: AP.47578
UPC: 038081542713. English. Words from a Traditional Nursery Rhyme.
A simple yet elegant adaptation of Pachelbel's Canon in D, this arrangement introduces a new melody that beautifully complements the beloved original. Incorporates twinkling text from the nursery rhyme Star light, star bright as well as some new words about making wishes. A delicate balance of unison- and partner-singing makes this an ideal selection for younger groups.
SKU: AP.48411
UPC: 038081552347. English. Traditional Spiritual.
A bluesy rhythmic motive stacks up across voices, creating a compelling introduction and scattered interludes for this hip interpretation of the African-American spiritual. Call-and-response verses give individual sections a chance to shine, and a brief descant plus some optional divisi add that final flourish. A great teaching piece for 2- and 3-part choirs.
SKU: AP.48926
UPC: 038081562506. English.
Carefully placed staccatos and well-chosen chord inversions illuminate the gospel style of this original anthem of hope. It's a perfect pep talk or pick-me-up theme song for whenever your program needs a lift. A solo voice becomes a duet before all the singers join in and grow with intensity. Several ascending key changes raise spirits, ensuring that the uplifting message resonates. Everything will be alright, everything will be okay, 'cause I can see a new horizon on a brand new day. If you don't perform with the kickin' SoundTrax accompaniment, be sure to add a groovin' drummer and riffing organ of your own. We dare you (and your audience) not to clap along!
SKU: AP.45363
UPC: 038081511030. English. English Carol.
A Christmas classic is given a cool treatment in this new arrangement by Andy Beck. Featuring a lilting jazz waltz accompaniment and sweet choral harmonies, this is a great way to perk up your holiday program! Optional parts for saxophone and vibes are available online.
SKU: AP.34765
UPC: 038081384917. English. Words by Tom Durley; Jay Althouse.
December nights bring great delights of friendship and good cheer. Celebrate the joys of the holiday season with this delightful contemporary madrigal-like choral. Perfect as a festive processional or during a madrigal feast.
SKU: AP.35476
UPC: 038081396729. English.
A favorite of choral directors everywhere, this extraordinary work will take your choir on a musical adventure. On this, its 20th anniversary, additional voicings and a cinematic orchestration provide new opportunities for contemporary performance. If this is not in your library, add it now!
SKU: AP.41608
UPC: 038081466880. English. Traditional Folk Song.
Simply stunning. A gently flowing accompaniment beautifully complements the transparent choral texture, and an extended coda provides the perfect close to this Appalachian-inspired arrangement. Unlike anything else you will program this year!
SKU: AP.35869
UPC: 038081423111. English.
Kirby's hip style rocks from start to finish in this kickin' choral sung entirely on scat syllables. As the title suggests, the rhythm (often syncopated) is the focus, while the sonorities are intuitive.
SKU: AP.39735
UPC: 038081443966. English. Words based on Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; music by Jay Althouse. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8.
Jay's contemporary setting based on this timeless and poignant text deserves a place in your upcoming concert season. Superb choral literature, guaranteed to touch all who hear it. As a special addition, project animated images from the VideoTrax DVD on a large screen during performance.
SKU: AP.41761
UPC: 038081468419. English. Words by Alice Jean Cleator.
This gentle lullaby is equally appropriate for school and church, offering a nativity text and a light choral texture. Lush harmonies reflect a faint jazz influence, while ethereal words softly sing the baby to sleep. Angels are watching over thee.