Secular Choral Concert Music

Titled with a Somali word used in Kenyan refugee camps, this piece touches upon a refugee's dream of resettlement as well as experiences of despair and struggle. A repetitive four-note motif and interplay

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

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

Emily Dickinson's familiar poem abounds with symbolism as the hope of a bird is brought to life. The musical setting utilizes a fluttering accompaniment, interesting harmonies, and a flowing melodic line

Set with rich harmonic chords and a sophisticated touch, this traditional Scottish–Irish folksong is a wonderful choice as a closing song to say good-bye. The a cappella harmonies and notated

Robert Fuller Murray's text about the importance of music and song is given a full-fledged contemporary a cappella setting that both concert choirs and a cappella groups will enjoy. Utilizing vocal

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

A beautiful, driving, repetitive piano accompaniment sets the stage for the journey of a runner - the air filling his lungs and the ground "pushing back with its slow spin." The ethereal voices paint a

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

This setting of the evocative Sara Teasdale poem tells a story about how experiencing nature and music can inspire deep love and happiness. Soaring vocal lines combined with rich, dissonant harmonies and a

Dealing with the topic of finding inner peace within yourself, this introspective piece utilizes sustained harmonies that build from loud to soft. Calm, serene and peaceful, it asks us to keep listening

Royal Canadian Air Force pilot John Magee wrote his popular poem High Flight when he was 19 years old. In the poem, he describes the delirious feeling of wheeling and soaring, and an intimate

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

Based on the poem Dreams by Paul Laurence Dunbar, one of the first African American poets to gain national prominence and recognition, this inspiring gospel-style concert work sings of the strength

Throughout history, prophets, visionaries, poets, and peacemakers have cried out for justice in our world. Justice must be actively pursued, and this music flows and moves as a metaphor of pursuit.

From the composer: "Written as a statement of support for, and allyship with, our Black brothers and sisters (as well as all people of color). Too often, in any aspect of life, we explain away other

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

An assuring text from master poet Sara Teasdale, its central theme is that one can take refuge in singing. Ever sensitive to the text, Walker crafts word painting throughout with shimmering piano

This unaccompanied piece contrasts a simple unison motif with quick ostinato in the lower voices. The homophonic refrain clearly declaims, "All forces have been steadily employed to complete

Beautiful a cappella harmonies paint the picture of the scenic, familiar text from Song of Solomon: "Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away, for lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and

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

A fascinating mix of English and Arabic text reinforces the universal message to open our minds, hearts, and hands to each other. The lively piano accompaniment, notated djembe percussion part, and

The first in a set of three Tennyson poems, this is set in a beautifully lyrical and reflective way. It may be performed as part of a trilogy of Tennyson poems.