Secular Accompanied Concert Music

A strong unifying text from Colleen Carhuff states "No notes are as connected as the souls that sing them, and no soul is happier than when surrounded by their friends. We are one!" A wonderful choice for

Highly rhythmic in both accompaniment and voices with independent vocal lines, this work simply radiates energy with a message of hope and empowerment: "To the stars through difficulties, look upward, move

William Wordsworth's reflection of a time gone by acknowledges past heartaches while creating a dream world where beautiful memories reign. As the vocal lines rise and fall to trace a distant rainbow, an

This lovely setting of the O'Shaughnessy text builds slowly through its whimsical melodic development. Accompanied by a beautiful piano part, the movement in the choral lines leads to a triumphant and

Setting inspiring words by James Weldon Johnson, this work is poignant and stirring, encouraging singers and listeners to reflect on the challenges of present times and to move forward with courage and

Commissioned by VOCES8 in 2020, this reflective piece is setting of a text from poet Jacqueline Goldfinger. Creating a period of calm during winter storms where we reflect on what we have lost but rise up

This work paints a picture of Sara Teasdale's Winter Dusk landscape tied to the thoughts of one solemnly reflecting on deep themes. A new and different take on a winter concert piece with an

A big, bold piano introduction sets the stage for this powerful and inspirational song. "Let the harmonies of freedom ring" is a message for this time and all times. The gospel feel of this original song

Sara Teasdale's lyric poem looks to the stars for serenity and promise, and this handsome setting is superbly crafted by noted composer Frank Ticheli. Tasteful harmonic suspensions and rich choral textures

This energetic and rhythmic setting of the Sara Teasdale text is a true standout! With both a contemporary a cappella feel and artistic choral integrity, this is a piece that directors will love teaching,

This moving selection features a smoothly flowing harmonic texture that courses throughout the piece. Warm and enveloping, The Song You Loved will be the song you love singing, whether it be for

Harriet Prescott Spofford's poem describes a young woman who discovers a bold new world of thrilling beauty when she ventures beyond her familiar walls. Accompanied by piano and optional violin, cello,

Robert Frost's celebrated poem finds a worthy home in this lush musical setting. The melodic lines mirror the travelled road, and the rich divisi harmonies bring a depth and poignancy to the lyrics that

This arrangement of the lesser-known spiritual Long Fare You Well builds on the expressive melody by incorporating fragments of the tune throughout the choral writing and culminates in a glorious

This poem imploring us to use our lives for the service and beauty of others is set to music in a flowing, lyrical anthem. The choral writing is buoyant while the piano accompaniment provides childlike

Set in Shaker harmony style, this is a great contribution to an Earth Day celebration. The voice-leading is both accessible and interesting for the singers as well as listeners, and the lyrics speak to our

The Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey is now marked with cemeteries; particularly striking are the graves of Australian and New Zealand infantry which are marked with epitaphs provided by the families

With text adapted from Walt Whitman's Song of the Open Road, this boisterous original concert work is brimming with rhythmic excitement! From the riveting dynamics to its strong lyrical message,

With lyrics by poet Euan Tait that compel us to find a way back to loving ourselves and loving each other, this inspirational selection can be featured in any season. Each section builds upon the previous,

Poet Kathryn I.W. Sparks uses allusions to nature to explore the idea of the inexplicable power of music to heal and save. This original concert work sets the text with artistry and sensitivity to the

In a style that is equal parts contemporary and historic, this unique concert work employs a variety of vocal styles, including contemporary a cappella, overtone singing, vocal jazz, and shape note/sacred

A powerful and colorful affirmation of life's beauty, this is like a miniaturized, one-movement symphony for chorus, piano, and flute. The combined musical forces are whisked together as a single

William Wordsworth's text shimmers in this a cappella setting with poignant imagery and gently moving clusters and suspensions in the harmony. "Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting: the Soul that rises

Subtle choral harmonies begin peacefully as the lyrics speak of the moments at the quiet beginning of a fresh new day. Building with energy and texture, they cry "Here I am!" in an empowering call to