Mellifluous Samoan lull words, like "manulele" (bird), and "suamalie," (sweet) are the basis for the hypnotic lullaby of repeated and recombined pentatonic patterns, titled 'Malolo.' Accessible to average choirs, this piece, with its subtle rhythmic interest and carefully crafted dynamic changes, is rewarding for more advanced choirs as well. The "macho march" setting of the Israeli pioneer song, 'Artsa Alina,' makes fine use of rapid alternation between unisons and vigorous chords. This one is a rouser! The Hebrew text is phonetically underlaid, with full Hebrew text and translation, with prononciation guide, included. Because 'K'wae-jina ching-ching nah-neh' builds on repeating short verses and refrains, this song of warning and complaint is accessible to western singers. Suggestions for performance alternatives give additional flexibility.The Korean text is underlaid phonetically, with full Korean text and translation, and guides to pronunciation, given as well. The haunting melody of 'Shenandoah' is variously placed against pedal points, with unison phrase closings, in the alto line, and at close imitation, to give the acoustic feeling of the singers' listening and longing for the sound of the beloved. Lush voicing and the subtle rhythmic texture of the choral accompaniment highlight the simple appeal of 'Suo Gan.' With full Welsh text and phonetic rendition underlaid in the score, and word-by-word and prose translations. |