Secular Concert Openers and Closers

A dynamic a cappella world music selection featuring a call and response solo, optional improvised percussion and movement, and a divided choir option. The song is a traditional South African celebratory

Arranged as a joyful processional, this 14th-century Latin motet can be sung completely a cappella or accompanied by hand drum and tambourine. This short work includes an optional repeating section that may

From Three Motets for Unaccompanied Choirs, this work for SSATBB voices is a strong contest/festival selection for mature choirs.

Inspired by Psalm 133, composer Michael John Trotta has written a lovely a cappella piece that celebrates the unity of brotherhood among all people. This calm, sonorous work is the perfect choice for a

Lush harmonies in a warm choral texture lay the foundation for this elegantly succinct setting of the traditional Irish blessing. A cappella, with a few lyric alterations to provide an enveloping framework

Choral ensembles always find such joy in singing music by a composer who truly understands the voice and the choral art. With logical voice leadings in and out of thorny places, creative use of independent

This a cappella Celtic Woman song is a sensitive, tender reflection of the love between two people and their gratefulness for each other. A wonderful tribute to love! "In the morning when you rise, I bless

This setting of a traditional Ghana folk song tells of using a tropical gourd, called a calabash, as a bowl for porridge. The a cappella vocals begin simply and build harmonically throughout. Rhythm parts

Siegfried Sassoon's text depicts the unbridled joy at the end of the First World War mixed with bittersweet sorrow. The final phrase, "the singing will never be done" hints at the irony of this joy amid

This energetic and spirited piece alternates between call-and-response sections and homophonic ones, exhibiting an ABA form overall. It is a great opener to any concert. Composed for the Columbus

Singers and audiences alike will be satisfied by this powerful, richly scored Christmas fanfare by Victor C. Johnson. The traditional Gloria in excelsis Deo text makes this an approachable and appropriate

A gorgeous setting of the well-known English prayer text. Available in a variety of voicings, this blessing is a wonderful way to conclude a service or performance.

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

Beginning simply with soprano 1 in unison, this setting of the traditional text builds to a gorgeous full four-part contrapuntal Amen. The text then repeats, this time homophonically in four parts, with a

This lovely setting of a timeless text features warm a cappella harmonies with peaceful resolution and artful syllabic stress. Cluster chords and soaring lines create a simple yet stunning moment of

The familiar African saying, "It takes a village to raise a child," is appropriately set to tribal-sounding music in this marvelous cross-cultural feature. A great closer, this piece is a proven audience

With lively percussion parts and call-and-response-style writing, this engaging and easy-to-learn piece will make a terrific concert opener! The a cappella harmonies are so fun to sing and include plenty of

With lively percussion parts and call-and-response-style writing, this engaging and easy-to-learn piece will make a terrific concert opener! The a cappella harmonies are so fun to sing and include plenty of

With lively percussion parts, handclaps, and a straightforward call-and-response style, this authentic West African folk song arrangement pulls together in a snap. A cappella, with solo or duet

This work speaks to the power music holds - its ability to comfort, to transport, and heal; for in moments of conflict, strife, and grief, we turn to music to lead us home and make us whole. The music

Here's an original madrigal that's an excellent teaching piece for developing mixed or treble choirs. Independent vocal lines, terraced dynamics, and a joyful music-themed text make it an appealing concert

Jubilation fills the air in this superb a cappella concert work for treble voices. Exciting melodic motives are passed from section to section, and skillful vocal writing aids in introducing independent