SATB Secular Concert Openers and Closers

Inspiring and uplifting! This setting of John Magee Jr.'s text works as a closer, festival piece, or for graduations. With accessible ranges and a buoyant piano accompaniment, developing mixed and treble

This tremendously fun arrangement of a South African greeting song exclaims, "Iyo hlonolofatsa, Ka lebitso la ntate," which translates as, "Bless everything in the name of the Father." Featuring a soloist,

This dramatic piece filled with rhythmic ostinatos and mixed meters is energetic, powerful, and creative; it truly brings the text to life. Excellent opener, closer, or even as the centerpiece of any choral

"What will I do with the portion given to me? I will sing." This fantastic work, written in a gospel style with an ecumenical text that challenges each of us to make the most of the lives we've been given,

This playful Irish children's song has been set with rousing clapping and stomping, and the result is a festival showcase! The vocals are set in a simple homophonic style, which makes the body percussion

"May the roads rise up to meet you, may the winds be always at your back... until we meet again." Available in a cappella and accompanied versions, the lovely choral texture utilizes straightforward rhythms

Commissioned by the Texas Choral Directors Association for their Middle School/Junior High Honor Choir 2015, this setting is a grand interpretation of the traditional Gaelic prayer. "May the road rise up to

An exuberant setting of a traditional Latin text that would make a dynamic concert or festival opener! Contemporary, syncopated choral harmonies, shifting meter and a driving piano accompaniment set the

Stacey Gibbs hits a home run with this African folk song. The piece is full of joy and expectation and useful as a concert opener or as a processional. Rhythmic energy, strong vocal writing and energy are

This arrangement of the lesser-known spiritual Long Fare You Well builds on the expressive melody by incorporating fragments of the tune throughout the choral writing and culminates in a glorious

A tender prayer, sensitively set to music, the gentle accompaniment and simple, lyrical voice parts combine to create one of the sweetest anthems your choir will ever sing. A chamber ensemble includes full

As a concert closer, signature piece, encore or graduation song, this a cappella original is a little gem!  "Days come, days go.  We try to take the time to let love grow.  Don't ignore 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

Premiered at the World Choral Symposium in Minneapolis, this gospel praise song was inspired by the spiritual Over My Head. The dynamic piano accompaniment adds to the excitement, making this a

"Over my head I hear music in the air, there must be a God somewhere." The traditional spiritual is a mix of hopeful lyrics about the future, despite our current afflictions. This setting brings an exciting

A collaboration between choral icons Joseph Martin and Mark Hayes produced this inspirational concert work that would be a great opener. The music-themed text is a powerful advocate for our art form, and

Got peanut butter? Choirs will love singing this ode to the classic sandwich staple while battling their conductor for the coveted jars. Movement and staging suggestions are provided to make this novelty a

This beautiful historic Irish blessing is a prayer that is well known and loved the world over. Set with a peaceful rhythmic simplicity, this expressive a cappella setting allows the text to shine through,

William Henry Davies' text is given a driving, rhythmic setting that encourages singer and listener alike to "sing out!" their songs of joy. The contrasting middle section is undergirded with rhythmic

"The song we sing is meant to bring a moment of truth in soft weather, where care and worry lift away and we can breathe together ... for we are home." Robert Bode's text of togetherness is the perfect way

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

Based on primary source material, this dynamic arrangement of the traditional spiritual brings great gospel flavor in the chosen harmonies and excellent piano accompaniment. Upbeat and powerful, you can add

This lovely original song has the feel of an Irish ballad. It opens with a solo voice and continues to add layers until it achieves its four-part texture. Performed a cappella or with an optional guitar

This song of praise from South Africa has vocal parts that are accessible and repetitive, so learning the initial rhythms and texts makes this a quick learn. Adding a soloist or percussion will take this