Robert T. Gibson : Down by the Riverside

New voicing! This gospel-style kicker is crafted with tried-and-true techniques of the genre, like rhythmic counterlines, call-and-response singing, and stacked vocal harmonies. An exuberant add-on section shifts momentarily to bluesy minor, and a huge ritard at the end invites singers to bring the power. Raise the roof by performing with the spirited SoundTrax, or add improvised bass and drumset. Premiered at the 2022 Missouri MEA conference under the direction of arranger Robert T. Gibson.

Arranger: Robert T. Gibson

Andy Beck : Fanga Alafia

This lively welcome song traditionally accompanies the West African fanga dance. Built on the familiar tune (plus some new material and a few English words), this general music class favorite is fully developed as a choral arrangement. Scattered handclaps, syncopated rhythms, and bright harmonies make this well-crafted setting a joy to perform! A modulating breakdown section in the middle offers the opportunity to incorporate the dance. Downloadable percussion parts are available online.

Arranger: Andy Beck

James Bowyer : May-Flower

Emily Dickinson's springtime text comes alive in this bright and graceful setting for treble voices. Beginning in unison and gradually blossoming to three voice parts, this song features a flowing piano accompaniment that never doubles but always supports the singers. An artful, yet accessible choice for treble choirs of distinction.

Arranger: James Bowyer

Sarah Martinez : Oy Khodyt Son

This traditional Ukrainian lullaby is characterized by a somber minor key and heartfelt rubato. This beautifully sparse treatment invites ensembles to personalize their performance by including the optional piano accompaniment or featuring solo voices. An optional narrator may read the English text translation during delicate interludes. Both phonetic and IPA guides appear in the publication or view the pronunciation video to hear a demonstration by a native speaker.

Arranger: Sarah Martinez | Composer: Traditional Ukrainian Lullaby

Austin Hunt : Skyline

Celebrating the marvels of modern architecture, this well-constructed tenor/bass feature salutes human achievement and perseverance. Engineered especially for changed and changing voices, this innovative original provides an appropriate blueprint for developing ensembles. Listen for the sturdy piano and percussion accompaniment that suggests the sound of a growing cityscape. "Eyes on the skyline!"

Arranger: Austin Hunt

Mark Burrows : You Are Light

"In the light I have found my family, I am safe to sing my song." With a lightly syncopated, contemporary sound, this uplifting original expresses the need for a warm and welcoming community for all. Composer Mark Burrows reminds us that we can help others feel comfort and belonging simply by sharing our inner light. Perform with piano alone or with the addition of an optional djembe. Rich with opportunities for social-emotional learning.

Arranger: Mark Burrows

This wonderful compilation of Irish blessing texts is set to a lovely and touching melody. Perfect for end-of-year concerts. Appropriate for school or church use. Featured on PianoTrax 3 Accompaniment CD (00-34744).

Arranger: Jay Althouse

With words adapted from the poem "Welsh New Year's Eve," this dance-like setting is a festive choice for wintertime concerts. The hand drum and bell parts are optional but enhance the new-age feel, and the easy-to-achieve mixed meter fits perfectly. Four refreshing voicings to choose from.

Arranger: Dave and Jean Perry | Composer: Jean Perry

An earnest soloist is accompanied by the soulful "oo"s of an a cappella choir during the expressive introduction to this spirited original. Soon we take a turn as the piece bursts into an exciting, rhythmic, and polyphonic tour de force. Thrilling in all voicings!

Arranger: Greg Gilpin | Composer: John Parker

Celebrate the work of one of America's best loved composers with this exciting arrangement by Philip Kern. This ragtime show-stopper opens with short male and female solos, adds the tight harmonies of your SAB or SATB choir, swings into a scat section featuring a trumpet-like vocal solo, ritards to a cakewalk tempo, and finally crescendos to an amazing ending that may very well raise the roof of your auditorium. Feature your accompanist with the left hand stride accompaniment, add a ragtime instrumental ensemble with the optional SoundPax, or perform this one with the rousing SoundTrax CD. Publication includes optional staging suggestions. Featured on "On with the Show!" video, #21799.

Arranger: Philip Kern | Composer: Irving Berlin

A lively, a cappella chorus opens and closes this original Christmas spiritual with a sweet rubato chorale in the middle. Composed in a traditional style with a contemporary flair, each section of the choir has a moment to shine, especially the basses/baritones--singing spirited interjections throughout.

Arranger: Andy Beck

Feature two outstanding accompanists at the piano with this exceptional arrangement of the favorite Christmas carol, "Angels We Have Heard on High." From its rhythmic opening, through the fresh a cappella section, to its spectacular finish, you'll marvel at Philip Kern's energized arrangement. Full, contemporary choral singing in every voicing. A full-sounding SoundTrax CD featuring the 4-hand piano part is also available.

Arranger: Philip Kern

From the first shimmering chords of the introduction to the final flourish of an uplifting descant, this artistic song paints an acoustic picture. Poetic words, progressive harmonies, and a piano part that your accompanist will love to play provide a vivid backdrop for a solid choral experience.

Arranger: Andy Beck

A bombastic and stately theme, based on stacked modal harmonies, gives a triumphant air to this contemporary setting of the traditional Latin text. Hushed B and C sections offer contrast before recapitulating the grandiose opening and an even fuller final cadence. Timpani, tubular bells, and triangle (which may be downloaded for free) may be performed by a single percussionist and add to the riveting drama.

Arranger: Ruth Morris Gray

Enjoy this original a cappella Christmas spiritual with optional bongo drum accompaniment. A slower contrasting middle section quotes a bit of "Go, Tell It on the Mountain." Features optional solos and descant. Exciting and rhythmic. And church choirs will enjoy it, too.

Arranger: Jay Althouse | Composer: Jay Althouse

A folk-like setting of Maya Angelou's empowering poem, which compares a bird's longing to be liberated with that of all people. Hayes chooses a minor key with plenty of harmonic tension and a walking tempo that suggests the footsteps of those who have come before. The final Picardy third is the ultimate symbol of freedom. This is the second movement from the song cycle Like Dust I Rise.

Arranger: Mark Hayes

Would Pachelbel approve? Who knows. But singers and audiences surely will! This rhythmic rendition presents the famous "Canon in D" with nonsensical scat syllables. Sing a cappella or with the optional piano accompaniment. It's guaranteed to be the most memorable three minutes of any concert program.

Arranger: Alan Billingsley | Composer: Johann Pachelbel

Wow! A fast swing intro punctuated by piano, bass, drums, and finger snaps leads into a jazzy arrangement of the traditional spiritual unlike any you've ever heard. The excitement grabs your ear right away and doesn't let up, building to an impressive climax at the end. Add your own rhythm section (parts are free online) or our smokin' SoundTrax CD for extra effect.

Arranger: Tom Fettke

Rhythmic. Passionate. Scintillating. Take a good look at this vibrant multicultural feature by Jay Althouse. You simply cannot sit still as this sizzling song captures you with its infectious Latin groove and harmonic progression. With a text in both English and Spanish, El Ritmo de la Noche speaks to the sound and spirit of music as an essential life force. "You move me; you are my emotion." A pronunciation guide and translation are included, and the optional SoundTrax or SoundPax, and choreography video or DVD will add to your performance. Featured on the new staging DVD/Video "On the Stage!" (DVD #23037, Video #23129).

Arranger: Jay Althouse | Composer: Jay Althouse

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.

Arranger: Mark Hayes

Feel the joyful lilt of this traditional Spanish Christmas carol, rendered beautifully in the original language. This well-crafted arrangement offers solid choral scoring and a sturdy piano accompaniment for the festive nativity-themed text. A comprehensive translation/pronunciation guide is included, and optional percussion parts are available free online.

Arranger: Andy Beck

Get out your bobby socks and saddle shoes for this 1950s-style reimagining of "Deck the Hall" with a brand new melody. The classic doo-wop harmonies and rock 'n' roll groove are easy to grasp and sure to entertain. Don't miss the choreography available on With a Song!

Arranger: Ruth Morris Gray

A basic synopsis of the Spanish: let's celebrate the holiday by playing tambourines and rattles. This lively a cappella arrangement of the traditional Andalusian villancico offers downloadable percussion parts, as inspired by the text. Ruth Morris Gray's real-world teaching experience and seasoned writing skills are evident throughout, ensuring a smooth rehearsal process during the busiest time of year. A fun way to bring variety to holiday programs!

Arranger: Ruth Morris Gray

The girls of your choir will stop the show with this fast-paced, energy-filled mini-medley from the mega-hit movie musical, Mamma Mia! Originally made popular by the Swedish music group ABBA. Sensational SSA singing with super-fun "all-girl" lyrics!

Arranger: Andy Beck | Composer: Stig Anderson | Performed By: ABBA

Edge-of-your-seat excitement! Substantial contrasts in dynamics and articulation make this arrangement of the traditional spiritual a fitting entry point into the study of the style. Embrace the drama and storytelling of the classic struggle between the Israelites and Pharaoh, while knowing that you're also giving your singers solid choral repertoire.

Arranger: Ruth Morris Gray

What happens when you cross a beloved Christmas carol with the hip and asymmetric rhythms of "Take Five"? This does! A satisfying mix of the familiar and the fresh, the arrangement applies jazz articulation, harmony, and style in a way that's both exciting and accessible. All voice parts get a turn with the melody as well as a fun "doo bop" accompaniment! Optional parts for flute and vibraphone are free online.

Arranger: Russell Robinson

Here's a rousing mini-medley of three favorite spirituals in less than three minutes! A grand choral fanfare gives way to a jubilant tour through "Great Day," "In That Great Gettin' Up Mornin'," and "My Lord, What a Mornin'"---including some mingling of themes at the end. Strong part-writing makes individual lines straightforward, and a full range of dynamics creates excitement.

Arranger: Sally K. Albrecht

Everything you have come to love and expect from a Jay Althouse Christmas spiritual, and a whole lot more. Lively and quick lyrics, solid rhythmic hooks, and refreshing parallel chords fill every phrase, followed by melodic riffs from the men's section. A contrasting middle section gently holds back before the A section returns including a well-written modulation and rousing descant over the final flourish. A great addition to your choral library.

Arranger: Jay Althouse | Composer: Jay Althouse

After racking up over a million views on YouTube, this unique a cappella stunner by BYU's Vocal Point and the All-American Boys Chorus is now available for SATB divisi choirs. Contemporary harmonies and layered choral textures support two soloists during the folk-like verses and bring importance to the full choral refrains. A familiar Holst melody makes a few appearances and a three-part treble chorus (or descant group) is an ethereal addition at the end.

Arranger: McKay Crockett | Composer: Gustav Holst

Celebrate the baby's birth in Bethlehem with this change-of-pace a cappella spiritual, set in a walking tempo with four optional percussion parts (available free at alfred.com/choralparts). Feel and hear the Christmas story come alive!

Arranger: Sally K. Albrecht | Composer: Jay Althouse

In the words of Jamaican musicologist Marjorie Whylie, "Jamaican folk songs are full of social commentary, censure, and recrimination in a vehicle of humor." This publication includes three charming arrangements for a cappella singers and percussion. One describes a comical scene at a train station; a second playfully questions a neighbor about some missing food; and the third (complete with simple instructions to recreate a ringplay game) cheers a naughty cousin who threw his aunt's coat out the window. A printed guide and online video provide vetted learning tools for the Patois language. Unique, authentic, fun!

Arranger: Marjorie Whylie

Itis 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!

Arranger: Matt Podd

The Mexican tradition of ""La Fiesta de la Posada"" recreates the search for a room at an inn. This delightful number by Sally Albrecht recreates that tradition in song with an English text that tells the story (""...when we light luminarias and swing at the piñata.""). It's a festive, cross-cultural addition to your December concerts. Features an optional solo/duet in each verse.

Composer: Sally K. Albrecht

With all the scintillating energy of Cuba in the 1960's, La Música is a hot, hot, hot number from contemporary composer Jay Althouse. Built upon a hypnotic rhythmic pulse, smooth Latin harmonies, and a haunting melody, this cross-cultural number combines English text with a few Spanish phrases to remind us that music is "a world we share." If you liked Jay's ¡Cantar! and Oye la Música, you don't want to miss this exciting sequel. Perform with the authentic sounding SoundTrax or create your own Latin combo with the optional SoundPax. Featured on "On with the Show!" video, #21799.

Arranger: Jay Althouse | Composer: Jay Althouse

You may know this French carol by its English name: "Sing We Now of Christmas." It's arranged here in the style of a French chanson with the addition of a drum part. Includes the traditional French text, with a pronunciation guide, as well as an English translation.

Arranger: Sonja Poorman | Composer: Sonja Poorman

In 1993, Maya Angelou recited this poem at the inauguration of President Bill Clinton, making her the first African American and the first female poet to deliver an inaugural recitation. Subsequently, Angelou's audio recording of "On the Pulse of Morning" won a Grammy Award for "Best Spoken Word" in 1994. Mark Hayes opens with a resounding "See Me Rise" choral fanfare before presenting the hope-filled latter half of the poem with rhythmic exuberance. This is the opening movement from the song cycle Like Dust I Rise.

Arranger: Mark Hayes

Tambourine and hand drum enhance the dance-like character of this Spanish villancico that dates back to the Renaissance era. This arrangement makes brilliant use of varied a cappella textures, from soloists over solid block chords to vigorous rhythmic interplay between voice parts. A true standout Christmas selection for discerning choirs.

Arranger: Mark Burrows

A warm adagio introduction breaks into a joyous iHosanna” chorus in this 44-measure homophonic masterwork. Taken from Schubert's Mass No. 4, this edition offers sensible vocal ranges, editorial dynamic and metronome markings, plus a complete IPA guide for the brief Latin text. The orchestral parts have been reduced to a playable piano accompaniment while preserving the Classical characteristics of the original work.

Arranger: Patrick M. Liebergen

The world rhythms and contemporary harmonies in this multicultural original are cause for celebration. An easy-to-learn Swahili text invites us to sing, dance, clap our hands, and stomp our feet! Visit alfred.com/choralparts to download free percussion parts and incorporate the energized choreography available on With a Song!

Arranger: Andy Beck

Maya Angelou's most popular poem about triumph over adversity comes brilliantly to life in this vivid setting by Mark Hayes. The bright shuffle tempo and bluesy piano riffs perfectly embody Angelou's strength, courage, and determination to rise above. One of the most uplifting choral selections of our time! This is the final movement from the song cycle Like Dust I Rise.

Arranger: Mark Hayes

Mark Hayes has achieved musical excellence with his lilting arrangement of the Welsh folk song, "The Ash Grove." SATB and SSAA choirs alike will shine while singing this tuneful melody, elegant harmonies, and poetic words. Mark's unique piano style is as vivid as ever, and his colorful choral writing is exquisite. The optional SoundTrax and SoundPax feature a woodwind quintet with shimmery auxiliary percussion. SoundPax includes parts for fl., ob., cl., bsn., Fr. horn, perc.

Arranger: Mark Hayes

Celebrate the connection we feel when we sing together. The heartfelt message at the center of this piece comes to life with sensitive choral writing and a touching text. Especially meaningful at graduation and end-of-year performances. A free sign language video is available online.

Arranger: Sally K. Albrecht

This stylish arrangement of a traditional Spanish carol includes an effective optional English text and is a unique choice for men's, women's, and mixed ensembles. Skillfully incorporates rich choral harmonies and captivating rhythms with multicultural flavor. Distinctive repertoire for holiday programs.

Arranger: Bruce Trinkley

A well-constructed original a cappella Christmas spiritual built upon a memorable chorus of interlocking rhythms. The gripping minor key, dramatic dynamic contrasts, and a compelling modulation will make for an impressive holiday performance.

Arranger: Greg Gilpin

Feature your best solo crooner(s) on this '50s inspired a cappella chorus that begs Santa for a timeless teen wish: "Won't you bring me someone to love?" The choir serves equally as the featured act (of the chorus and bridge) and the backup singers (for two dreamy verses). The final falsetto phrases and 7th chord cadence deliver a sweet doo-wop ending.

Arranger: Andy Beck | Composer: Andy Beck

This text-driven setting of Rossetti's treasured poem is top-tier. A well-developed choral interlude sounds like swirling winds with round vowels and captivating harmonies to spare. Most notably, Jay's masterful text painting weaves the sound of the breeze throughout. Artful. Haunting.

Composer: Jay Althouse

Ruth Morris Gray has a gift for presenting worthy texts in satisfying choral settings, and this piece is no exception. With words from the poem iNovember” by William Cullen Bryant, former editor of the New York Evening Post, this expressive concert work evokes the stark beauty of coming winter. An optional C-instrument part adds a shimmering layer to the luscious choral/piano texture.

Arranger: Ruth Morris Gray

The optional lilting flute and rhythmic hand drum parts lend a festive air to this song that celebrates the end of winter. Robust choral singing throughout beckons a change of season, and a soaring descant at the end signals the triumphant return of spring. A fully developed piece for winter and spring programs.

Arranger: Charles McCartha

Sally and Jay's heartfelt text reminds us of the impact of singing together, which serves as a symbol of our unity. The memorable hook and important message will engage and inspire your singers from the first rehearsal to the final performance. Sign language featured on With a Song!

Arranger: Sally K. Albrecht | Composer: Jay Althouse