SKU: CF.CM9770

ISBN 9781491164419. UPC: 680160923311. Key: G major. English.

There is a Balm in Gilead is a well-known, traditional African-American spiritual. The “balm in Gilead” is a reference from the Old Testament, but the lyrics of this spiritual refer to the New Testament concept of salvation. The balm of Gilead is interpreted as a spiritual medicine that is able to heal Israel (and sinners in general). In the Old Testament, the balm of Gilead is taken most directly from Jeremiah chapter 8 v. 22: Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is there no healing for the wounds of my [God's] people?This a cappella arrangement stays close to the simple, emotional source material. The words and the music embody weariness, resignation and hope, as the realities of slavery are met with the hope of salvation. There is a Balm in Gilead was originally part of a larger work, entitled, Mpaka simba watapo, for treble chorus, African drums and piano.  .

SKU: HL.218407

UPC: 888680668679. 6.75x10.5 inches.

“Seasons come, seasons go, nothing stays the same” – this is the message of this folk-like original with words based on the text from Ecclesiastes. Younger choirs will enjoy singing this well-crafted work that will allow them to build performing skills.

SKU: AP.51161

UPC: 038081581989. English.

At the end of every day, there will be stars. Stars are the inspiration for this stunning concert work that offers the reassurance only nature can bring. A lilting piano theme weaves its way through cascading vocal lines that seamlessly expand from pristine unisons into sumptuous sonorities. Your altos will especially love their glimmering, glistening interjections. Be sure to observe notated dynamics, which lean into several well-approached suspensions and taper to twinkling resolutions.

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: CF.CM9524

ISBN 9781491150566. UPC: 680160908066. 6.875 x 10.5 inches.

From the opening solo and duet passage to the a cappella three-part refrain, Lee Kesselman uses many textures in his transparent arrangement of this beloved African-American spiritual. Sure to touch the heart, inspire, give hope, and challenge, There is a Balm in Gilead is perfect for concerts and festivals.

SKU: HL.254450

UPC: 888680721299. 6.75x10.5 inches.

This beautiful and thought provoking text by Emily Dickinson is a wonderful vehicle for poetry discussions. A lush piano accompaniment and fluid vocal lines will shine through in your choral concert.