Joel 2

It is said that accepting change is hard to do, but this straight-ahead groovin' gospel number with a secular, uplifting text encourages us to embrace the changes in life - and even have some fun with them!

Langston Hughes' powerful poem addresses the issues of racism, division, poverty, and greed, and Dilworth's inclusion of the African American spiritual I've Been in the Storm So Long

This concert gospel selection explores the connection between Dvorak's "New World" symphony theme and its spiritual roots, which were directly influenced by his interaction with Harry T. Burleigh. The theme

Celebrating the life and legacy of civil rights icon John Lewis, this gospel-style song calls us to action: to work for justice and make the world a better place for all. Easy to learn, hard to forget, this

Based on a poem by Joseph Seamon Cotter, Jr. (1895-1919), who was at the forefront of the early 1900's African-American cultural renaissance, this original a cappella concert work is brimming with

This energetic original contemporary gospel piece has a wonderful groove and an uplifting message of self-empowerment. Staccato and accented vocals, expressive dynamics, and a repetition section moving up

"When I was down and out, love lifted me!" There has perhaps never been a time when love was needed more than now. This simple message, wrapped with a solid gospel feel and fun-to-sing harmonies in the

Quoting the spiritual Music in the Air, this piece features a driving gospel energy, lush harmonic color, intriguing counterpoint, and a dynamic piano part. The text talks about how singing

Maya Angelou's famous text frames this majestic concert piece that celebrates diversity, equity, inclusion, and access to one's purpose and destiny. Dilworth's setting is in his classic style with

This beautiful gospel-styled song, based on a secular text spun from the river-is-life metaphor, is perfect for graduation or virtually any performance. The human's quest for moments of peace and

Charles Anthony Silvestri's text honors the adventuresome choices of a life well lived and asserts that death is merely another crossing point on a continuing journey. The opening solo line blossoms into a

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

The words are simple - they will cry peace where there is no peace - but the setting of the music is rhythmic and dynamic. The repetitions make sense as the words move on to "joy" and "love," and you

This is a rhythmic, contemporary gospel-style anthem featuring the words of Maya Angelou, charging all of us to take responsibility for making our communities safe, supportive, and just. Reinforced by a

In her poem Human Family, Maya Angelou teaches us the importance of recognizing and respecting differences while celebrating our common humanity. This gospel setting of these words uses dissonance,

"You're the one to make a difference." This original concert work has a light contemporary gospel feel and inspirational lyrics that encourage us all to take the time to look around and see how our actions