Ave Maria

This piece is recommended primarily for all-male groups. Directors are often hesitant to attempt a four-part piece with early adolescent singers. The fact of the matter is that when four parts are available, directors are more likely to find a part that suites each individual's voice, particularly if the group contains voices from several grade levels (i.e. grades 6, 7, & 8 or 7, 8, & 9). If the group contains younger singers from only one grade (i.e. grade 6 or 7), voicings written in the bass clef may not be needed. Obviously, as in so many cases, it depends upon the group. This is the challenge of the mid-level music educator. If you haven't attempted four-part music with your all-male group, may we encourage you to do so. It will amaze you as to how much better the group sounds when the boys are singing parts that are comfortable and fit their voices. Integer Vitae is an excellent piece for beginning choral singers because of its homophonic texture, comfortable ranges, and easy rhythm.