In Celebration of the Human Voice - The Essential Musical Instrument
Home | Doo Wop | Barbershop | World | Contemporary | Christian | Vocal Jazz | Choral | Christmas | Instructional | Arrangements
Classical | Opera | Musicals | Personality | Young Singers | Disney | Videos | Songs | The Artists
Choral Arrangements from Africa
| Traditional and modern African choral and folksongs arranged for harmony voices. |
Arrangements from Africa - Africa | Ethiopia | Ghana | Kenya | Liberia | Nigeria | Senegal | Sotho | South Africa | Swahali | Tanzania | Uganda | West Africa | Zimbabwe
Songbooks, Arrangements and/or Media
Displaying 1-16 of 16 items.
Anders Nyberg : Freedom is in Your Hand Here is a new and powerful collection of songs from South Africa, celebrating the country's freedom! Following the popular first collection Freedom Is Coming, the songs in this new set are for mixed voices with solos, finger-snapping, optional drum accompaniment and more! In English and African languages. Songlist: Forward, Performance Suggestions, Freedom Is In Your Hand, Ewe Thina (We Walk His Way), Oh Yini (Where Are You?), Sithi Jabula (My Joy Is Jesus), Hosanna Nkosi Phezulu (Hosanna Praised Be God on High), Azisenzeni na? (What Have We Done?), We Shall Never Die, Honono, I Live and Move 
Anders Nyberg (Edited by) : Freedom is Coming 15 moving songs from South Africa arranged for four-part voices, complete with a foreword, musical instructions, illustrations and commentary. Songlist: Freedom Is Coming, Asikhatali, Gabi, Gabi, Ipharadisi, Singabahambayo, Siph' amandla, Akanamandla, Bamthatha, Vula Botha, Shumayela, Nkosi, Nkosi, Siyahamba, Haleluya! Pelo Tsa Rona, Thuma Mina, We Shall Not Give Up The Fight
Anders Nyberg (Edited by) : Freedom is Coming 15 moving songs from South Africa arranged for four-part voices, complete with a foreword, musical instructions, illustrations and commentary.
Doreen Rao's Choral Music Experience : African Songs for Childrens Chorus "Mbiri kuna Mwari" is composed in the spirit of choral music heard at the Episcopal Cathedral in Harare, Zimbabwe, in the summer of 1993. Shona is the majority tribe in Zimbabwe and its language. The text is the Shona translation of the opening section of the Gloria of the Mass Ordinary. This traditional lullaby, "Thula, Babana," is from the eastern coastal region of South Africa. The singular sweetness of the melody has made it a favorite with South African choirs and audiences. In this arrangement, the melody is repeated several times, passing from one voice to the other, with a gradual variation and accumulation of accompanying texture, before fading into silence. Also included in this package is "Ghana Alleluia," "Kenya Melodies," and "African Celebration." Songlist: Ghana Alleluia, Kenya Melodies, Mbiri Kuna Mwari, African Celebration
Fred Onovwerosuoke : Songs of Africa for Upper Voices Following the success of Songs of Africa (for mixed voices), Fred Onovwerosuoke presents six authentic arrangements of African songs scored for upper voices and percussion. Published in two small collections - this set for SA and the second for SSA - the songs originate from a variety of locations, including Zimbabwe, Botswana, Nigeria, and the Benin Republic. With texts to celebrate an assortment of themes, such as harvest, Christmas, play/leisure, and marriage, these arrangements are sure to delight all choirs looking for something a bit different. An English translation and a pronunciation guide are provided. Songlist: Aluwa Sio, Aleluya!, Kayra Sillo, Irapada, Yesu Sore, HJeppepe!
Fred Onovwerosuoke : Songs of Africa Songs of Africa offers an exciting collection of 22 diverse pieces of African choral music that every singer, choral director, music educator, and enthusiast will find invaluable. Fred Onovwerosuoke and the St. Louis African Chorus have transcribed and created these arrangements, which represent a wide spectrum of Africa's regions and cultural practices. The songs cover subjects such as spirituality, religion, community, work, and play, and are selected from many African countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Congo, Benin Republic, South Africa, Namibia, and Gambia. They offer not only a welcome addition to choral repertoire but also a refreshing alternative for concert settings and church services. This collection includes useful notes on performance practice and cultural context, percussion charts, translations, and a pronunciation guide. Songlist: Abanije (The Bully), Agoro Yede ('Tis Good to Play), Aluwa sio (Alleluia), Angigye aba (The High Life), Awa eshelele, Barka (Goodwill), Bolingo yanga na Yesu (All my loove for Jesus), Efuo (Holy), Hepepe (Hurray!), Je! ajua, Yesu anipenda (Jesus, we love you), Kaanamajoo (We Thank You), Kayra Sillo (The Way of Peace), Leo kuna faraha (Lots of Joy), Mayingo (Womanhood), Om' Oba ni (The Prince), Otu b'oma (Unity is Strength), Oyele ma (Dear Mother), Pata, pata (Touching), Safari Ya Bamba (A Voyage to Bamba), Tuli, tuli, Yesu sore (Jesus, wake up), Yogho (Achievement)
Mike Brewer : Hamba Lulu - Five African Songs Hamba Lulu is a fantastic addition to the choral repertoire. A breath of fresh air in the classroom and for many a choir wanting a challenge. These stirring songs are additive, so you can tailor performances to local resources, increasing technical demand according to their experience. Easy to learn and sure to make an instant impact on audiences, the songs tap into the rich seam of African culture. Songlist: Mangwani M'Pulele, O-re-mi, Karanga Walking Song, Hamba Lulu, Askha Thali
Mike Brewer : Banuwa - Three African Songs Banuwa is a vibrant collection that presents choirs with a terrific opportunity to experience the excitement and energy of African music. Building on the success of Hamba Lulu, this volume taps into the rich seam of African culture and includes the festive song 'Banuwa', alongside Zulu bird song 'Izintakana' and the South African wedding song 'Babevuya' - coupled here with the infectious 'Walamba'. Songlist: Banuwa, Izintakana, Babevuya / Walamba
Mike Brewer : Oalla Mohololi - Three Songs From Africa Mike Brewer's Choral World Tour brings together traditional songs from around the world in exciting a cappella arrangements that will both challenge and stimulate your choir. Each piece is accompanied by a translation and pronunciation guide. In this collection, feel the pulsing rhythms of South Africa, experience the solid harmonies of a Namibian chorus, and experiment with the vocal techniques used in Tunisian song. Songlist: Oalla Mohololi (Sotho ceremonial song from South Africa), Meguru (Kavango song from Namibia), Yelli bo'dek dhaya fikri (Love song from Tunisia)
Mike Brewer : Banuwa - Three African Songs Banuwa is a vibrant collection that presents choirs with a terrific opportunity to experience the excitement and energy of African music. Building on the success of Hamba Lulu, this volume taps into the rich seam of African culture and includes the festive song 'Banuwa', alongside Zulu bird song 'Izintakana' and the South African wedding song 'Babevuya' - coupled here with the infectious 'Walamba'. The acclaimed Choral Programme Series provides a wealth of invaluable concert repertoire including works by Brahms, Holst, Bridge, Stamford, Warlock, Faure, Saint-Saens, Schubert and Schumann, as well as Christmas repertoire, gospel choruses, arrangements of folk songs and hits from the shows. Songlist: Banuwa, Izintakana, Babevuya / Walamba
Various Arrangers : African A Cappella Selected for the Ron Kean Multicultural Series, "African Processional" utilizes sounds from African folk songs and a joyful chorus emerges with an occasional solo interjection. "Ning Wendete" is a traditional folk song from Kenya and is a conversation between a man and a woman. "I love you, but you do not love me. How is that? If you do not love me, you had better tell me so." Dynamic contrast, percussion and a wide range of layered vocal textures make this an appealing concert choice. "The Coca Cola Song" is a playful contemporary African folksong and is a lot of fun to perform with layered vocal parts, African percussion, and humorous references to the choir members singing. Celebrative and highly rhythmic, "African Noel" shines with energy and excitment. Contrasting dynamics and optional percussion make this one a real creative and refreshing Christmas selection. Beautiful in its simplicity, your choir will have fun with this one! Songlist: African Processional, E Oru O, Ning Wendete, O Sifuni Mungo, An African Song Game (The Coca Cola Song), African Noel
Various Arrangers : Songs of Africa for Female Voices Here's a wonderful selection of well crafted arrangements African folk songs for unaccompanied female voices. "Amavolovolo" is a popular Zulu traditional song as arranged by Rudolf de Beer, former conductor of the Drakensbeg Boys Choir of South Africa. What a vivid connection to the people and culture of that part of the world! Authentic percussion and movement suggestions give this selection great visual appeal. "Ogo Ni Fun Oluwa" is an exuberant celebration of the birth of Christ through layered African polyrhythms and call-and-response vocal phrases. The singers encourage the audience to rejoice, shout and clap with them, making this selection a wonderful processional or concert opener. Percussion, Yoruba translation and pronunciation are included. "N'kosi Sikelel' I Afrika" is a dignified song, a Pan-African Anthem and is sung throughout the continent. This setting may be sung a cappella, or with chimes and layered percussion. "Mohlang ke kgotlelang hae" is a popular South African traditional song as arranged by Rudolf de Beer. What a vivid connection to the people and culture of that part of the world! Includes percussion and pronunciation guide. Songlist: Mohlang ke kgotlelang hae (When I Return Home), N'kosi Sikelel' I Afrika, Ogo Ni Fun Oluwa, Amavolovolo
Various Arrangers : Songs of Africa for Male Voices "Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain" - The famed South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo led by Joseph Shabalala creates moments of transformative beauty with their unique sound and vivid imagery. Choirs will enjoy recreating this evocative work. "Harambee" - In Kenya, the Swahili word harambee has multiple meaning. When a group of people gather to complete a difficult physical task, they often say, "one, two, thre ... harambee!!" In this context the words means: "let's go, let's get it done." A special gathering to raise money for building a church or school is also called a harambee. These gatherings often feature long speeches, music and dancing. In the context of this composition, harambee means unity - working together. In a time of increased multi-cultural awareness, Bwana Awabariki offers an ideal piece of African culture for both churches and schools. The song emphasizes rhythm, blend, and African-style vocalism with broad, open chords and the familiar low, low bass part. This warm a cappella blessing would be especially effective with added percussion. This a cappella setting of a traditional South African praise song "Gabi, Gabi" just bursts with joyful energy. Dynamic contrast, percussion and a wide range of layered vocal textures make this an appealing concert choice. Songlist: Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain, Harambee, Bwana Awabariki, Gabi, Gabi
Various Arrangers : Songs of Africa for Female Voices Vol 2 Bobobo is a traditional dance of the Ewe people in the Volta Region of Ghana. There are many variations from village to village, and many songs may be used. A village rendition is a lively event and will often last all day or night. The popular worship song "Hakuna Mungu Kama Wewe " from Kenya can be performed in a variety of ways, by adding movement while singing, incorporating percussion instruments into the performance, or as a processional. Opening with a simple unison melody, the song progresses into two parts and finally adds a descant-like 3rd voice part. "Nakutakia Siku Njema! " is accessible for young choirs, and makes fun of common tourist phrases in Swahili, so don't look for a deep meaning in the text! A rhythmic pulse provides lots of fun for the singers and creates an exciting performance! "Duond Akuru" is based on the Kenyan phrase for "the voice of the dove" this composition combines the imagery of the African landscape and its musical essence. Songlist: Bobobo Suite, Duond Akuru, Nakutakia Siku Njema! (Have a nice day), Hakuna Mungu Kama Wewe
Various Arrangers : African Folk Songs The first two South African Folk Songs are in Shangani. The first seems to be in recognition of the arrival of the first white settlers off the west coast of Africa, ostensibly in the 17th century. The second, Tulan, Nimamele!, speaks for itself. They are both best done in a strong, boisterous fashion. Freedom Come is The closing movement of Bandari: Inside These Walls, a five-movement work encompassing a variety of African styles and combining Swahili and English texts. Freedom Come is written in the style of a South African freedom song; it creates an atmosphere in which hope can increase, healing can occur, and connections to our common humanity can be strengthened. Songlist: Two South African Folk Songs, Kpanlongo, Freedom Come, Keep quiet and listen, See, coming at a distance, the German ship
Various Arrangers : African Folk Songs Vol. 2 Two distinctive cultures combine in the unique choral change-of-pace known as 'An Afro-Celtic Diddle.; Featuring African percussion and Irish-inspired vocals, this delightful piece is fun, fun, fun! Disney's powerful African song, 'One by One.' will bring down the house. 'Dubula' is a folk song of the Xhosa people of South Africa. The style is boisterous, party-hardy and open-throated. The South African Zulu song, 'Womoweh (Mbube),' was first recorded in the early 1940s by Solomon Linda. Pete Seeger later transcribed the song for The Weavers. Once adapted to their own style, it become one of their greatest hits. The Five African songs in 'Hamba Lulu' have a rhythmic energy that propels the music and stirs the human spirit. With a variety of performance options, this collection will be an outstanding addition to your choral library. Stephen Hatfield's fun tune, 'African Celebration' is gem that can be used in any concert series needing that extra world music flavor, it comes complete with a pronunciation guide to help you and your choir learn the music! Songlist: An Afro-Celtic Diddle, One by One, Dubula, Wimoweh (Mbube), Hamba Lulu, African Celebration |
Displaying 1-50 of 89 items.
Bongo and hand drum accompaniment highlight this African-styled work filled with rhythmic intensity. The simple "alleluia" text allows the melodic and rhythmic lines to take center stage. An add-on section makes it an exciting piece, building to a powerful finish.
Arranger: Jay Althouse | Country: Africa
Benjamin Harlan has taken an African folksong and created a new anthem which radiates Christmas joy. The optional percussion adds excitement and interest. Available: SATB.
Composer: Benjamin Harlan | Country: Africa
A traditional Latin text paired with the spirited rhythms of Africa. This joyful concert work includes a contrasting "et in terra pax" section, adding a lovely legato to the middle of the piece. Layered percussion patterns are included in the octavo.
Arranger: Sonja Poorman | Country: Africa
Freshen up any holiday concert with this new rhythmic treatment of 'Angels We Have Heard On High.' Add optional Orff instruments or any rhythm instruments to enhance your performance. Simple but effective!
Arranger: Carole Stephens | Country: Africa
Celebrative and highly rhythmic, "African Noel" shines with energy and excitment. Contrasting dynamics and optional percussion make this one a real creative and refreshing Christmas selection. Beautiful in its simplicity, your choir will have fun with this one!
Arranger: Benjamin Harlan | Country: Africa
Dave and Jean Perry have crafted a fresh new arrangement of the popular Christmas folk song, African Noel, in two editions for smaller choirs of all ages. Layered voices and call-and-response between soloist (opt.) and choir highlight the choral texture. The percussion arrangement (opt., available separately) and InstruTrax CD add a special touch. Great for school or church choirs.
Arranger: Dave and Jean Perry | Country: Africa
Now available for men, this best-selling arrangement features constant rhythmic intensity from start to finish. Add the optional percussion to increase the effect.
Arranger: Andre J. Thomas | Country: Africa
We proudly announce the new Jo-Michael Scheibe Sacred Choral Series with this invigorating arrangement by Ken Berg. In Dr. Scheibe's words, This series is committed to providing the finest crafted sacred choral music possible with the objective of ensuring that may be used in worship and in schools when appropriate. This setting does not disappoint. A cappella voices with dynamic percussion instruments make this a great concert opener. Excellent for church or school as promised.
Arranger: Ken Berg | Country: Africa
A best-seller, this dynamic setting of the traditional African carol is now available for treble voices. Percussion parts for sticks, shaker, bongo or African drums, triangle, and tambourine are included and lend an exciting, rhythmic flavor. The limited ranges, repeated sections, and creative choral arranging guarantee success for programming contrast.
Composer: Victor C. Johnson | Country: Africa
Here is a distinctive offering from David Lantz and Herb Frombach. Drawing upon the sounds and spirit of Africa, this a cappella gem for Pentecost is an unforgettable choral to experience. The anthem's unity message is perfect for the festival of Pentecost and the inclusion of the idiomatic rhythm instruments brings an added dimension of delight to this exciting new composition.
Composer: Herb Frombach | Country: Africa
Selected for the Ron Kean Multicultural Series, this piece utilizes sounds from African folk songs. With a myriad of percussion instruments, the rhythm is set. A joyful chorus emerges with an occasional solo interjection.
Arranger: Ron Kean | Country: Africa
Fresh and innovative writing brings this African tune to choir lofts and joins it with a spiritually energizing 19th Century hymn text. This pleasing fusion brings the spirit of worship alive for Pentecost or any time. For a colorful touch, add the easy-to-learn percussion to make this a truly memorable call to worship. Joyful!
Arranger: Victor C. Johnson | Country: Africa
Here is the much anticipated follow up to Michael Barrett's smash hit African Advent Carol. Hear the morning break forth with a joyous affirmation that the music of light will shine in our lives forever. Incorporating the traditional South African tune Siyahamba, this amazing choral will be an unforgettaable song for post-Christmas services or for any time of the year when joy is lifted to the skies!
Composer: Michael Barrett | Country: South Africa
Based on the Ghana folksong, Nanuma, this anthem highlights important elements of worship: praising God in song, praying, and going forth to share God's love. Written for children, youth, and adults, the piece can be sung by one choir or multiple choirs combined for an intergenerational presentation. Handclaps, percussion instruments, and a rhythmic piano accompaniment join with other options to create an unforgettable multicultural experience. Available separately: SATB, Unison/opt. 2-Part Treble. Duration: 3:25
Composer: Joseph Martin | Country: Africa
Perform two traditional mass settings in a whole new way with this exciting original which means "African Kyrie and Sanctus." Your singers will be inspired by the tribal rhythms and sonorous harmonies, and your audience (or adjudicators) impressed by the juxtaposition of Latin, English, and Swahili texts in both contrasting movements. Accentuate the multicultural flavor by adding the SoundPax drum ensemble, or using the SoundTrax CD. SoundPax includes parts for African Percussion Ensemble, bass.
Arranger: Andy Beck | Composer: Patsy Ford Simms | Country: Africa
Akekho Ofana No Jesu is an African tradition song sung by congregations across the African continent. Extremely dynamic with solos and improvised percussion. The middle section includes double choir - but the double choir is optional and simply repeats material that has already been sung. Achievable for a wide variety of levels.
Arranger: Daniel Jackson Performed By: Point Loma Nazarene Concert Choir | Country: Africa
This Swahili text is joyously set by Jerry Estes. Rhythmic and catchy repetitive phrases make this choral quick to learn and fun to perform. Add percussion instruments to support a multicultural feel! The text is uplifting and positive, encouraging the singer and the listener to take advantage of what life offers. Very memorable!
Composer: Jerry Estes | Country: South Africa
Here is a popular Zulu traditional song as arranged by Rudolf de Beer, former conductor of the Drakensbeg Boys Choir of South Africa. What a vivid connection to the people and culture of that part of the world! Authentic percussion and movement suggestions give this selection great visual appeal.
Arranger: Rudolf de Beer | Country: Africa
Sally Albrecht combines three celebrated African folk songs into one exuberant arrangement for choirs of all levels from elementary through high school. Pulsating rhythms and a joyous layering of vocal parts build to an explosive finish. Sing this cross-cultural gem in Swahili and English for seasonal concerts, or use the alternate "Alleluya" text all year long. A lively African feel SoundTrax is available, or add your own rhythm instruments.
Arranger: Sally K. Albrecht | Country: Africa
This playful contemporary African folksong is a lot of fun to perform with layered vocal parts, African percussion, and humorous references to the choir members singing.
Arranger: Michael Coolen | Country: Africa
This choral gem by Jerry Estes, set in an African folk song musical style, incorporates the Swahili words for peace, love and unity. Amazingly versatile, this piece works for multicultural purposes, December performances, Kwanzaa, or general concerts. An optional descant adds more teaching opportunities and excitement to the performance. Perfect for improvisational percussion instruments! Available separately: 3-part mixed; 2-part; StudioTrax CD.
Composer: Jerry Estes | Country: Africa
Two distinctive cultures combine in this unique choral change-of-pace. Featuring African percussion and Irish-inspired vocals, this delightful piece is fun, fun, fun!
Arranger: Michael Coolen | Country: Africa
This inspired East African folk song offers a joyous acclamation of thanks suitable for a Thanksgiving service or any time of year. The accessible a cappella arrangement with solo makes it a flexible anthem for choirs large or small. Wonderful as a stand-alone anthem or as a creative opening processional, this piece also includes an optional percussion accompaniment.
Composer: Mark Burrows | Country: Africa
In the Congo, the song Banaha has been used in many occasions throughout history, including weddings! With a language unknown in origin, this melody should feel instantly familiar and comfortable. Includes parts for Maracas and Conga Drum in the octavo!
Arranger: Cristi Cary Miller | Country: Africa
This South African folksong is quite simple to learn and quite effective in performance, with the parts entering gradually and then taken away. Intended as a morning ceremonial song, it may be sung a cappella, with guitar or piano. Duration: ca. 2:00.
Arranger: Robert DeCormier | Country: South Africa
A unique and exciting Christmas offering for school or church use! Jonathan Crutchfield has taken a Youruban folk text and arranged it for SATB voices with a brief soprano solo and some very interesting percussion parts. Betelehemu gets its intense rhythms from African drumming techniques. This electric a cappella crowd-pleaser lends itself easily to choreography, and is extremely effective any time multicultural emphasis is desired. The demo recording heard here is by the First Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir, Huntsville, Alabama, directed by Harry Wooten.
Arranger: Jonathan Crutchfield | Country: Africa
From the Republic of Congo, this wonderfully rhythmic traditional African folk tune is sung in the Lingala language. The lyric joyfully expresses the angelic announcement of the birth of Emmanuel and conveys a message of hope for the world. Percussion is included in this great multicultural selection for Christmas.
Arranger: Jill Gallina | Country: Africa
In a time of increased multi-cultural awareness, Bwana Awabariki offers an ideal piece of African culture for both churches and schools. The song emphasizes rhythm, blend, and African-style vocalism with broad, open chords and the familiar low, low bass part. This warm a cappella blessing would be especially effective with added percussion. Well suited for World Communion, mission emphasis, or any multi-cultural gathering, Bwana Awabariki is fun for SATB or TTBB ensembles.1.5+
Arranger: Eugene Butler | Country: Africa
You'll feel the African pulse of this piece from the first measure. "Changamano, join together. Moja, moja, one by one." The text features seven Swahili words or phrases; a pronunciation guide and translations are included in the publication. It's a "music" song, it's a "unite as one" song, but most of all, it's a joy to sing. Includes optional solos and a treble trio descant. Staging Suggestion are featured on Sally's "Showtime!" video, Alfred #21176.
Composer: Sally K. Albrecht | Country: Africa
Here is a captivating arrangement of the traditional "Kum Ba Ya" combined with an original Christmas chorus that builds to a striking chant-like chorale, and finishes with the brilliant layering of all three as it fades to the end. Masterful composer Jay Althouse has done it again with this refreshing, unforgettable African arrangement. Truly accomplishable and effective in all voicings. Enhance your performance by adding African percussion instruments, or sing along with the authentic sounding SoundTrax CD.
Arranger: Jay Althouse | Country: Africa
Dubula is a folk song of the Xhosa people of South Africa. The style is boisterous, party-hardy and open-throated.
Arranger: Stephen Hatfield | Country: South Africa
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 | Country: Africa
This fifth movement from "Bandari" is set in the style of a South African freedom song. Easy choral writing and a narrator soloist provide an uplifting experience. The words may be altered to suit the occasion, be it Christmas or a special celebration. The music builds to a dramatic climax. Wonderful way to close a program.
Arranger: Ben Allaway | Country: South Africa
Freedom is coming is an incredibly infectious celebration of hope and freedom from oppression. I have coupled it with Hamba Vangeli ("Spread the new word"), as its musical feel and declamatory message follow on well. Pay attention to the dynamics -- there are lots of opportunities for contrasts and a gradual build-up of texture, as well as chances for soloists to sing out. In Freedom Is Coming, watch out for the different rhythm on "oh yes I . . . know" -- it might catch you out! Faber Choral Singles offer a series of beautifully crafted arrangements in a diversity of musical styles for today's choirs. From Broadway, pop and folk to spirituals, gospel and original works, the Faber Choral Singles series guarantees the perfect repertoire for every occasion.
Arranger: Alexander L'Estrange | Country: Africa
This a cappella setting of a traditional South African praise song just bursts with joyful energy. Dynamic contrast, percussion and a wide range of layered vocal textures make this an appealing concert choice.
Arranger: William Powell | Country: South Africa
All things are possible if you just take it little by little, step by step... This Swahili phrase, with added English text, is written in an African folk style by Jerry Estes. The easy harmonies are lively and supported by a percussive piano accompaniment. The performance/accompaniment track adds even more rhythmic excitement. Haba Na Haba is a wonderful selection for your young singers to learn and enjoy. Available: 3-Part Mixed; 2-Part; StudioTrax A/P CD.
Composer: Jerry Estes | Country: South Africa
Singing ("umculo") is a huge part of the culture and everyday life of many African peoples, none more so than those in Southern Africa. Hamba Lulu is a wedding song that advises Lulu, a bride, to "Hush, listen to all the things they are telling you." The unusual time signature is in fact incredibly straightforward, with a gentle, comforting rhythm that is first set up by the piano. It then follows with the choir and soloist (or group of singers) intoning the simple melody above. The men of the choir and then the sopranos take over this tune in the middle of the piece and it ends, as softly as you dare, with humming. Faber Choral Singles offer a series of beautifully crafted arrangements in a diversity of musical styles for today's choirs. From Broadway, pop and folk to spirituals, gospel and original works, the Faber Choral Singles series guarantees the perfect repertoire for every occasion.
Arranger: Alexander L'Estrange | Country: Africa
A tremendously fun arrangement of a South African greeting song that exclaims, Bless you in the name of the father! The use of a soloist and percussion brings this setting to life. A perfect closer for your concert, festival or honor choir!
Arranger: Daniel Jackson | Country: South Africa
This traditional South African folk song is upbeat and playful. An audio pronunciation guide can be found on the Hal Leonard website and sample rhythmic patterns for optional percussion are included in the page 2 notes.
Arranger: Lhente-Mari Pitout | Country: South Africa
This highly dramatic traditional African song was arranged by two South African composers, both experts in this genre of music. The ethnic flavor is palpable as the treble voices carry the melody and the men provide the harmonic underlay.
Arranger: Michael J. Barrett | Composer: Ralf Schmitt | Country: South Africa
This lullaby is from the Republic of Benin, a country in Western Africa. The Mina language of the traditional melody is paired with an original melody in English creating a loving partner-style song with optional flute. A simple choral piece that creates many multicultural learning opportunities and a lovely performance.
Arranger: Jill Gallina | Country: Africa
Iza Ngomso is the fourth movement of Christopher Tin's major work The Drop That Contained the Sea, and is based on water in one of its unique naturally occuring states. In the case of Iza Ngomso, a piece about clouds, the text is derived from an unusual translation of the Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poem Keramos: translated into Xhosa, one of the national languages of South Africa (and one of the African dialects that features prominent 'click' sounds).
Composer: Christopher Tin | Country: South Africa
A light and upbeat original centered on the Swahili phrase Jambo, rafiki which means hello, friend, this is a great selection to use at the beginning of the year, or for a friendship-themed concert. Available separately: 3-Part Mixed, 2-Part, ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:00.
Composer: Mary Donnelly | Country: Africa
This African song contains easy ostinato patterns that are simple to learn but sound wonderfully complex when all put together. An excellent selection for concert or festival use.
Arranger: Brian Tate | Country: Africa
A West African dance song provides a highly rhythmic center for this rousing piece. It builds from one part to a dramatic ending in six parts. To be sung in the native language - there is extensive repetition of the words, so this is not too great a challenge.
Arranger: Derek Bermel | Country: West Africa
The Swahili text for Merry Christmas to you is delightful in this African setting with creative harmonies, rhythms, and percussion. A strong pulse is established from the beginning with the bass and left hand of the piano accompaniment, moving the music and text to an energetic and full ending. A pronunciation guide and a suggested drum part are included within the choral. It is a wonderful choral to program for your multicultural selection in December. Available separately: 3-part mixed with percussion, 2-part with percussion, StudioTrax CD.
Composer: Marti Lunn Lantz | Country: Africa
Here is a traditional Xhosa folk song once again authentically arranged by the director of the Pretoria Youth Choir Lhente-Mari Pitout. Created to be sung in the original Xhosa language, an IPA pronunciation guide along with a poetic translation is provided making an authentic performance easy to realize.
Arranger: Lhente-Mari Pitout Performed By: Exigence | Country: Africa
Celebrate the power of singing with this robust African piece by S.J. Khosa. Add bongos, bass drum and hand claps to create an ethnic tribute to choral singing. Performance time: Approx. 2:45.
Arranger: Michael Coolen | Country: Africa
From the Kavango River region of Namibia in South Africa comes this a cappella work translating as Lord, you are up there and we are down here. Have mercy on us and show us your love. Though unaccompanied, the arrangement creates a pulsing and almost percussive feel as the song is sung reverently with beautiful dynamic changes. Ideas for simple movement adding visual interest and cultural detail are included.
Arranger: Russell Robinson | Country: South Africa
 |  | ||
| Page: | 1 | 2 |
Select a Category |
Want to Sing? - Find a Chorus Near You
List of Choruses by State | List of Choruses by City