David Del Tredici writes: "My setting of the 1727 New England Primer's Alphabet might horrify its Puritan author by transforming its simple text into an exuberant tour de force. Its 26 couplets tumble upon one another in tight three-part counterpoint, testing the young performers' range and endurance alike."

Composer: David Del Tredici

A conceptual piece that utilizes Thompson's technique of "soundpainting," a system for conducting, composing and shaping improvisation during performance. First performed by the Young People's Chorus of New York City, Francisco J. Nunez conductor. Written in non-traditional notation.

Composer: Walter Thompson

From an interview with the composer: "As the concluding lines of the poem make clear, the weary housewife is deaf and blind to the miracle of Orpheus and the peaceable kingdom he creates through music. That vision is only seen through the eyes and heard through the ears of the child."

Composer: Dominick Argento

Arranger: Francisco J. Nunez

From Del Tredici's Program notes: "In this traumatic post-9/11 world, I felt an urge to connect with, and even comfort, the youngest generation of budding musicians. Heart and felt are two words that directed my choice of texts: I wanted to tell something about myself, as well as about the joys of childhood ... Stevenson's "The Little Land" re-creates the imaginitive world that to daydreaming children seems so natural."

Arranger: Francisco J. Nunez

Composer: Benjamin Lees50498586

The young composer's own text is a reflection of her imaginings and feelings about antiquite from a young person's perspective. With finger cymbals and claves.

Arranger: Francisco J. Nunez

Elena Kats-Chernin wrote this for her son, diagnosed with mental illness, wishing the label to be taken off his back. The combination of syllables reflects the emotions and turmoil of his condition.

Arranger: Francisco J. Nunez