Secular Concert Openers and Closers

Young singers will love the style of this contemporary festival piece with a school-friendly Latin text. Directors will love how easy it is to teach as well as the inherent musical value of unified vowel

A patriotic fantasy in an accessible version for choir and band, this soaring rendition of America, the Beautiful is a crowning jewel for choral or combined concerts. Sturdy and proud, it features

This stunning work features a breathtaking string orchestration. Tender and compassionate, the music is full of hope for the weary and oppressed. "All things are shadow, You are substance; all things

This emotive original work exudes a sincere message of peace, hope, and love. A memorable melody combined with well-crafted vocal lines is punctuated by a pensive accompaniment that showcases the

The buoyant compound meter of this jovial Christmas charmer is suggestive of Irish folk music. Tuneful melodies are paired with merry "ding dong" counterlines as this refreshing choral (with processional

"I dream a world where man no other man will scorn, where love will bless the earth and peace its paths adorn..." The introspective and contemplative lyrics of the great African-American poet Langston

Victor Johnson's celebratory original features a text adapted from Psalms. Opening with a stately, majestic fanfare, it moves into jubilant high gear featuring a rhythmically driving accompaniment and

This sensitive original setting of the traditional Irish text is both accessible and expressive. A beautiful melody, simple harmonies and a flowing piano accompaniment combine to create an especially

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

This jubilant, accessible original will add flourish and excitement to your performance. The strong opening theme leads to a colorful contrasting middle section, and the buoyant recapitulation propels the

Perfect for developing choirs, this piece features energized syncopation, strong melodic lines, dynamic accompaniment, and a familiar Latin text. It is an excellent concert or festival selection that gives

With an uplifting text, skillfully written vocal lines and a light and supportive accompaniment, this is a solid opening selection for concert or contest use. The limited-range melody based on the word

"My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty..." The familiar words of America are set to a sweeping new melody, which leads to a stirring original chorus. Then, a fully harmonized refrain of