Secular A Cappella Choral Concert Music

The line between time's reality and its invention is blurry. This modern concert work borrows heavily on contemporary a cappella harmonies and techniques to create an engaging texture that highlights the

As recorded by Sweet Honey in the Rock, this extraordinary a cappella piece speaks of the precious gifts of life and loved ones. Newly updated by a scholarly committee dedicated to Dr. Barnwell's works,

"I am you are me...." This innovative original uses a clever text and pop-style music to create an environment of togetherness among members of the choir. Community - that's what it's all about. Each vocal

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

Four rhythmic ostinatos underscore the lilting melody in this work scored for a cappella mixed choir and solo or small group. Speaking to the hope found in each child that's born, this piece reminds each of

A joy-filled journey through the many gifts that singing brings us! Memorable lines and contemporary harmonies are backed by energetic percussion for shaker, tambourine, and cajon. Easy to learn and

This favorite '80s ballad is presented in a tender concert-style arrangement with beautiful choral harmonies and an inventive piano part. Feature a soloist and your whole ensemble with these empowering

Inspired by the wild and fragile beauty of the high desert of New Mexico, this original concert work encourages us to give thanks for nature while challenging us to steward it well. Beginning in unison and

Originally composed as a dance theater piece, this sobering work should maintain a strict tempo. Written for a cappella mixed choir, the dense harmonic texture and drastic dynamic shifts help deliver the

This setting of the famous World War I poem by John McCrae is a beautiful fit for any concert, veteran ceremony, or Memorial Day event. Featuring a baritone solo and an approachable optional piano

With glorious suspensions and modern parallel a cappella movement, this original piece explores the promises we can make to the people we love to wait with them through the difficult seasons of life. With

With beautiful intuitive writing and contemporary a cappella harmonies that are innovative without being overly challenging, this original work brings a fresh, empowering perspective to each day. Uplifting

A powerful call to justice, this work reminds us that in order for hope to survive, every day we need to work toward peace. A free-flowing solo is followed by the layering of rhythmic ostinatos, building

Paul Laurence Dunbar's poem is just as relevant now as when it was written in 1896. Rhythmic ostinatos in this a cappella setting with a notated djembe part heighten the intensity of the historic text that

Here is a beautiful love song, passionate and stirring. The bittersweet lyrics are of events that happen on "a golden day." In a modern a cappella style with lots of closely moving harmonies, this is a

Also set as a children's book, this powerful text quite literally sings itself. With a divided bass ostinato and accessible harmonies, this a cappella work is a poignant tool to help young people discover

Inspired by the tranquility of nature in Norway's fall season, this choral work based on the composer's solo piano piece by the same name is a peaceful meditation on the wonder of the earth's changing

This setting of fragments of text by Sappho, translated by Arthur Sanders Way and A.S. Kline, uses cross-rhythms, syncopation, and flowing melodic lines to create a sense of restless longing.

Based on a saying of Heraclitus, this engaging original work conveys the message that everything changes, and nothing is permanent but change. Each part gets its own unique melody, and the altos get to open

Traditionally sung at graduation ceremonies to welcome the summer, this Swedish psalm has been freshly set with dynamic writing, warm, sweeping lines, and rich harmonies. With options to sing either the

Based on Hildegard of Bingen's traditional chant and inspired by her agile and hypnotic lines, this piece emulates its text about the wind. Xylophone obbligato, finger cymbals, and tambourine heighten the

With an original rainy-day text, this engaging treble piece is oh so fun to perform and definitely worth the challenge. Sound effects, body percussion, and varied rhythmic articulations imitate a rainstorm

Clustered cadences, impactful pauses, and a glistening soprano solo characterize this a cappella piece about the stewardship of nature. A beautiful, contemplative addition to a nature-themed concert.

The impact of the wind is felt in this poem by Anne Bronte. The musical texture moves along with a contemporary a cappella feel that imitates the flowing motion of the wind. Upbeat and joyful, the harmonies