A deeply emotional work, Absalom, My Son attempts to capture the unnatural feeling of a parent losing a child. Challenging, and containing a myriad of soundscapes created by the composer, this work is still highly melodic and approachable. For advanced high school choirs and above.

Composer: Michael Barrett

This beautiful Xhosa prayer has been set with care by Michael Barrett and Ralf Schmitt. The flowing vocal lines are achievable by a variety of levels, while the addition of the two soloists adds great forward momentum. This would work well in concert or in church.

Arranger: Michael Barrett

This joyful American song has been set beautifully by composer John Wykoff. Speaking of how we will "all rise together" in the morning, this work reflects on the idea of leaving the troubles of the world to embark on a better day. A wonderful concert opener that is accessible to many levels. Cameron LaBarr Choral Series.

Arranger: John Wykoff | Performed By: Missouri State University Chamber Choir

This lesser-known spiritual has been masterfully and simply set by Anthony Trecek-King. Singers are encouraged to use improvisation, inflections, and note bending to create the most authentic sound. Achievable and moving, with themes of resilience and home. Cameron LaBarr Choral Series.

Arranger: Anthony Trecek-King | Performed By: Missouri State University Chorale

Patrick Hawes' gentle and thoughtful music perfectly fits this simple, yet profound, text: Give light to my eyes lest I sleep unto death. Cameron LaBarr Choral Series.

Arranger: Patrick Hawes | Performed By: Missouri State University Chorale

Laudate Dominum is a lovely a cappella work for SATB choir, featuring a beautiful melody and gorgeous harmonizations true to the composer's style. Flowing and forward-moving, this uncomplicated work is a delicate and joyful addition to any program. Cameron LaBarr Choral Series.

Arranger: Ivo Antognini | Performed By: Missouri State University Chorale

Written for performance at the 58th presidential inauguration, with text by Pulitzer Prize nominated poet Michael Dennis Browne and music by John Wykoff, Now We Belong is a moving anthem that expresses sentiments of love, unity, and peace. Cameron LaBarr Choral Series.

Arranger: John Wykoff | Performed By: Missouri State University Chorale

A poignant poem by Shelley set with beauty and care by Ivo Antognini. The poem and the music are permeated with passion, melancholy, and sweetness, making this a great choice for good high school choirs and above.

Composer: Ivo Antognini

The Polish composer has created a highly dramatic setting of this text. This selection is excellent for reverberant halls.

Composer: Pawel Lukaszewski