Drawing from a message he hears around the country from young singers, Jim Papoulis writes of the importance of nurturing and developing one's inner spirit and personality, as well as accepting others for

With Gnothi Safton, composer Jim Papoulis raises the profile of Boomwhackers out of the elementary classroom and onto the concert stage. Including an original inspirational text that urges young

Kuwa Furaha is a song about joy. More specifically, it is about the simple and beautiful way that children have of showing and expressing their joy. Jim Papoulis is well known for his world music

Another first-rate multicultural piece by Jim Papoulis! The composer's work with African choirs has introduced him to many people who, although facing extreme adversity, somehow maintain a joyous spirit

The Papoulis Foundation for Small Voices advocates for school music programs in many ways, with proceeds from sheet music sales of this piece going directly to the Music Changes the World project. This

The essence of this work, in a world of conflict and violence, is the need for a deep understanding that peace can come from all of us. After the opening phrase, "Look in the eyes of the children, feel the

"I ask for one day where I don't have to hear about pain, or life that's lost, I ask for one day where whispers of hope are alive inside my heart." These words, written by 5th graders in a writing workshop,

Bernyanyi Bersama was written for the 2014 Saint Angela Children and Youth Choir Festival in Bandung, Indonesia. Using the theme of diversity in harmony, the language of Indonesia (Bahasa) is woven

This rhythmic, high-energy Latino-style piece lends itself to movement as it celebrates life. Using traditional Latino harmonies and rhythms, it also incorporates world music sounds. The a cappella sections

The essence of this piece gives reverence to the message that music is universal; as a language, as an art and as a part of who we are. "From a distance we sing, music is universal. We sing for joy, we live

"In every heart there is a place that shows us who we are." The opening phrase presents the challenge that unfolds in this significant song: bringing our inner voice to expression. Bound to be the highlight

The composer's strong commitment to the power of belief in oneself is reflected in the strength and conviction of this music. Opening as a subtle ballad, the music creates a sense of how important

New Beginnings was inspired by an exciting yet bittersweet time for students - the closing of one chapter in life and beginning another. Although many of us look forward to a next chapter in life

Music has the power to enhance many aspects of young people's lives. It can teach us about discipline and working together toward a common goal, and it can stimulate the humanity in us all.

Using percussion to simulate a heartbeat and from that bringing forth a simple idea - that reaching even just one heart can be a very powerful gesture - this music sends a positive message to singers and