James 3

Originally called hokku, the familiar three-line verse began as the opening of a group improvisation called renga which evolved in Japan in the middle ages. Often creating spontaneously, one poet would

From a three-part collection based on poetry by American pioneers, this third piece depicts a barn dance as vocalists circle 'round the instruments, stomp, clap, and perform with general

A familiar text from Lessons and Carols services in a brand new setting. Unexpected tonality shifts and waves of building tempos lead to a final climax of "Deo gracias!" A quintessential Advent addition to

A triptych of pieces for harp (or piano) and SATB divsi chorus using texts by poet Christine Schenk. Her version of the "O Antiphons" provides a means of contemporary reflection on those ancient texts. The

For baritone/countertenor & cello. First printing. Composed for the Christopher Caines Dance Company. Premiered in New York, June 2004. Texts by Ezra Pound. Includes program and performance notes.

In Sara Teasdale's poem After Love, the opening line "There is no magic any more" establishes the theme of vanishing love. This setting of the poignant text, in the dark key of D-flat major,

Close harmonies and a lyrical melody paint the sense of longing one feels after losing a loved one. An exploration of dissonance and resolve, this a cappella piece provides comfort in a time of

Based on the familiar German hymn HERLIEBSER JESU, this unaccompanied motet offers a sublime musical experience for congregations and audiences alike during the season of Lent. Anchored by a homophonic

The monodrama Ahab is the third that Hall has created with librettist Caitlin Vincent. This ten-minute work takes an imaginary approach to the final moments in the life of Herman Melville's

All Await was commissioned by Trinity Presbyterian Church, Berwyn, Pennsylvania, in celebration of the church's 150th anniversary. Nancy Gifford was asked to compose a celebratory piece for this

A very poignant song. Phrases such as "Hush little baby, don't you cry, you know your mama was born to die," or "Oh my brothers, I must leave you here behind," view the approach of death in terms of those

This selection is a gentle lullaby based on an old Welsh folk song. With limited divisi towards the end, it has beautifully lyrical writing and will be a warm and welcome addition to any concert.

An instrumental duet for viola or clarinet in Bb, violoncello, and piano based on the hymn tune NEW BRITAIN (AMAZING GRACE.) Opening with a sostenuto piano introduction supporting pulsing 8ths in the

"American Death Ballads was composed especially for tenor Brian Thorsett and premiered by him at the San Francisco Conservatory, November 1, 2015, with pianist John Churchwell, and at the National