Nationally renowned musician and educator Emily Ellsworth directs the 51-strong Chicago-based GECC through 16 songs in their distinctive warm and spirited style. Several Australian and New Zealand folk songs grace this CD, 'Tutira Mai Nga Iwi,' 'Cabbage Tree Hat,' and 'Waltzing Mathilda.' Two of our favorites are the exuberant African-flavored tunes 'Kungala' and 'Akakomborerwa,' with its powerful rhythmic drumming. Also among our favorites are Aaron Copland's 'The Promise of Living' and 'At the River,' arranged by Copland, and 'I'm Goin' Up a Yonder' by Walter Hawkins. Most songs are piano or drum accompanied, all are beautiful and touching.