2020-2021 Editors' Choice Selections

Omnia sol temperat, "the sun warms everything," comes from a verse of Latin found in Carmina Burana. The composer's English text speaks to the human need to anchor words of love and commitment in

A cry for peace in a world torn by war, this poignant a cappella setting of an original text is filled with striking dynamic contrasts. "Sing, Be, Live, See... This dark stormy hour, the wind, it stirs. The

This imaginative piece will captivate your audience with the sounds and sensations of a thunderstorm. The whispered opening and lyrical melody set the mood for the moment when the audience becomes part of

Hear the steady sound of the mill wheel in this brisk setting of the French Canadian folk song, which uses alternate French and English text. "I hear the windmill, tick-a tick-a tack-a..." Use the

This flowing, melodic setting of the traditional Latin text is absolutely gorgeous! The marvelous part writing, luscious harmonies, and rich accompaniment are so gentle and graceful, the work is purely

This superb a cappella arrangement is an inspiring tribute to the heroism of Harriet Tubman. Vocal percussion effects, well-written harmonies, train sounds, and call-and-response singing work together to

The strong, driving rhythms and exciting dynamic contrasts of this Latin setting will keep your audience and choir engaged right up to the final vigorous "Hallelujah!" Very catchy, fun to sing and easy to

"Bright morning stars are rising...Day is breaking in my soul..." This Appalachian folksong, arranged for a cappella voices, has a contemplative, spiritual quality. Opening and closing with a trio, it's a

Pure energy from start to finish, this dynamic original incorporates both Latin and English lyrics, which are brought to life by the toccata-like piano accompaniment. Vocal layering is a key sectional

Here's an invigorating cross-cultural number that will make everyone want to dance! It's a joyful Israeli dance song, incorporating the popular round Toembai. With Hebrew text, lots of "tra la la

This gentle original setting of an 11th-century Japanese text captures the mystery and flavor of ancient Japan and frames the middle section, which is in English. Haunting melodies and simple harmonies are

This hauntingly beautiful setting of a tender Slovakian lullaby is a little gem! Each stanza is superbly crafted, with an a cappella verse in English and an included pronunciation guide. "Close your eyes,

Majestic scenes from Ola Gjeilo's native Norway inspired Charles Silvestri's text for this contemporary tone poem. The words and music are fused in a poignant, lyrical way to convey the intense beauty of

This touching piece for choirs of all ages offers a wish for the world to find the hope, peace, and love that it needs. With easily learned memorable melodies and a bridge featuring hints of "star light,

Kusimama is written in a world-music style that is accessible for choirs, both young and old, that are just beginning to be exposed to world rhythms and language - a sort of introduction to new

Beautifully melodic, with a great beat and a great message, this "world music" piece has a text in Swahili which translates as, "We have a right." Imbakwa was written for the score of a film about

Here is a lyric beauty for treble or mixed voices, with lovely legato lines, a gorgeous piano part, and a picturesque text. "In my song there's a race through a wild green meadow, the sunshine so bright in