This anthem for the Christmas season lends itself to smaller, community choirs. An original tune, RIVERWOOD, moves from unison statements-first by women's voices, then by men's-to a third verse of contrapuntal treatment by the altos and men grace by celestial "ahs" from the sopranos. Piano or organ quietly and aptly fill in the aural scene along with an optional flute.More music for small choirs

This is a new composition on the final stanza of a Scottish translation of Luther's hymn "Vom Himmel hoch da komm ich her."Balulalow is the Scottish word for "lullaby."Scored in the original language, a modern version is included for those choirs who wish to sidestep the original.

The alternation between minimalist accompaniment and the stark contrast of a cappella voices adds richness and depth to this Gilbert Keith Chesterton text. The close vocal harmonies convey reverence and awe.

This lovely lullaby on a text of William Blake is beautifully crafted by composer Gerald Custer. Scored for divisi mixed chorus with harp (or piano), try it for your lessons and carols service.

Poetry By: William Blake

Gerald Custer has set the beloved "Deep River" for tenor soloist with SSAATBB choir. Tips for tuning from choral guru James Jordan are included in the octavo.

Composer: Harry T. Burleigh

"Elegy," by Gerald Custer, is a setting of three texts associated with Robert Kennedy during his lifetime. This glorious work for SATB divisi and piano captures Kennedy's idealism and his faith in the inherent good of all people. It is a fitting song of lament and tribute, filled with the hope of a man whose dreams continue to inspire.

The bass part is optional.

Composer: Heinrich Schutz

The words and melodies American song writer Stephen Foster exemplify our nation in the 19th century. Dr. Gerald Custer has maintained that character in this madrigal-like setting. The heart from a time gone by sings through in warmth and sincerity. Good high school choirs, college and community ensembles will jump at the chance to program this gem.

Composer: Stephen Foster

This adaptation of Psalm 133, with Hebrew refrain (nine repeated words) and English verses, is an SAB arrangement of a Hebrew folksong. It has a strong 2/4 klezmer feel. A fine piece for interfaith worship!

A duple-meter version of this famous Robert Lowry hymn, scored for SATB divisi and organ. An interpretation that is straightforward and chorale-like, rather than the frequently heard folklike settings. Produces a big choral sound.

Composer: Robert Lowry

An appealing treatment of a classic early American hymn. Stanza 1 is set in unison, 2 in canon, 3 for SAB unaccompanied, 4 for unison with descant, and a reflective 5 in unison with a quiet SAB finish. The accompaniment offers simple chordal support.

The "O Magnum" has been memorably set by composers from Vittoria to Lauridsen, and the tradition continues with this essentially homophonic SSAATTBB setting with harp. A mostly quiet and reflective setting with rich harmonic texture.

Original music on a 17th-century Nativity carol. Creatively utilizes the SATB divisi resources in varying combinations to paint the text. For nonreligious institutions that must avoid overtly Christian texts, especially in holiday concerts, this text is subtle enough to bypass restriction, yet provides a worthy offering of serious choral music.

Compelling rhythmic variety and a heartwarming text make this short anthem especially useful for small choirs during the Christmas season. An optional C instrument part brings a delicate playfulness to the keyboard accompaniment.

If you have a college choir, or an above-average high school or church choir, and if you've grown a bit weary of the same or similar Christmas repertoire year after year, look at these settings of two classic carols: a 16th-century translation of part of Luther's Vom Himmel hoch and an 18th-century work by an under-appreciated poet. Ê

This famous canon by William Billings, considered one of the foremost early American composers, has been delicately arranged with an unobtrusive accompaniment, allowing the original music to prevail with simple keyboard support.

Composer: William Billings

Set to a tempo steady but unhurried, the text of Gerald Custer's carol gives voice to a willow tree present on the day of Christ's birth.Ê This through composed piece is written for piano, but harp may be substituted.

The words of this new Christmas carol have their roots in the traditional Icon of the Nativity. The vocal lines feature lyrical leaps that add to the emotional expression of the piece. The expert choral writing is supported by a piano accompaniment and a part for handchimes, but also features an a cappella verse.