2023 ACDA Reading List Selections

Based on a traditional Hawaiian chant with original music, this rousing work for advanced treble choirs brings all the drama of a volcanic eruption normally associated with destruction. But in Hawaiian

Rhythmic energy abounds in this exciting setting of a simple "Alleluia" text. Set in 10/8, the asymmetrical meter gives a repetitive groove that is engaging and fun to sing for each voice part. Dynamic

Serving as an unofficial anthem, this beloved Korean folk song is creatively set by one of Korea's top female composers. This arrangement begins with beautiful, flowing unison vocal lines and simple

Framed as a letter from a teacher to her young students, this text is brimming with descriptive phrases and inspirational thoughts. The musical setting partners the youthful exuberance of the text with

Inspired by the text of poet E. Pauline Johnson, Sarah Quartel has created an energetic and fun piece for a cappella voices. Melodic elements and counter melodies are shared between the voices in a

Harriet Prescott Spofford's poem describes a young woman who discovers a bold new world of thrilling beauty when she ventures beyond her familiar walls. Accompanied by piano and optional violin, cello,

This simple setting of the well-known poem from George Herbert's The Temple features sweeping melodies and an extended organ introduction. The melody is taken up first by upper voices, then full

This moving selection features a smoothly flowing harmonic texture that courses throughout the piece. Warm and enveloping, The Song You Loved will be the song you love singing, whether it be for

This hauntingly beautiful setting of a tender Slovakian lullaby is a little gem! Each stanza is superbly crafted, with an a cappella verse in English and an included pronunciation guide. "Close your eyes,

"Take my hand, don't let go..." This inspirational selection about the pressures the world throws at us is an empowering and lyrical work that will inspire singers and audiences. A free SEL

This hit song from Dua Lipa's award-winning album is all about the funky nu-disco sound. Arranged by the defacto "father of contemporary a cappella," this is a fun number that mixed or treble a cappella

This anthem was written for a women's conference at Princeton Theological Seminary. The text sings of the role of women in the church, acknowledging both difficult and joyful experiences. The piece may be

This fun, playful, folk song tells the story of a family of sly foxes. Written for treble voices of all ages, this energetic, engaging, and playful arrangement, complete with instrumental section with body

"Give us hope and we'll show you the way." This popular piece is celebrating its 20th anniversary with this edition. Identical in each voicing to the original editions - but now, more of the royalties are

Rosephanye Powell has brought her classic style to the beloved spiritual Good News, Chariot's Coming! This arrangement is rhythmic, vibrant, and fun, with excellent vocal writing and energy. The

Brimming with pop energy, catchy hooks, and a modern, punchy backing track, this song will be a favorite for concert and show choirs. Built on the theme of developing much-needed harmony in our world and

Rhythmic and dramatic, this exciting piece is the perfect way to open your holiday concert. The traditional Latin text is given a perfectly crafted modern setting with optional body percussion and driving

Here is a spiritual that encourages one to be a good humanitarian, a soldier for peace, and an example of hope for others. A perfect message of peace for advanced ensembles!

An artistic flowing piano accompaniment frames the languid choral lines that envelop Sara Teasdale's poem of longing for love. Overlapping harmonic lines bring depth and emotion to the setting, eventually

"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 Malay folk song about a pony fish has a short melody made up of only four notes, but the song is brought to life by the expressions and metaphors in the poem. The body percussion, movement, and descant

This sweet and simple original song, with a lilting melody and folk-like harmonies, illustrates the impact of the relationships that we build throughout our lives. Optimistic about the future, the text

This choral adaptation of J.S. Bach's "Suite No. 3 in B minor" is brief - only 36 measures long - but it is a lyrical showcase for developing choirs. Your ensemble will sound sophisticated and elegant when

In a perfect blend of the ancient with the modern, this majestic work sets a text by Hildegard of Bingen with pentatonic chant-like melodies, parallel lines, and sections of counterpoint that are stunning.