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

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

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

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 Awardae 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

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

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