Songs that Celebrate Music

As recorded by Sweet Honey in the Rock, this extraordinary a cappella piece speaks of the precious gifts of life and loved ones. Newly updated by a scholarly committee dedicated to Dr. Barnwell's works,

Abounding with energy and optimism, this contemporary concert work setting of James Weldon Johnson's text evokes hope and youthful exuberance. With speech-driven rhythms, a driving piano accompaniment, and

A strong unifying text from Colleen Carhuff states "No notes are as connected as the souls that sing them, and no soul is happier than when surrounded by their friends. We are one!" A wonderful choice for

Very fun to sing, this optimistic piece is characterized by catchy, singable melodies and a syncopated rhythmic drive in the vocal and piano writing. The text celebrates the lifelong relationships created

This gospel-style original draws inspiration from the work of the late Martin Luther King Jr. and others like him who worked to break down the barriers of racial discrimination and social injustice. A

A setting of the text by James Weldon Johnson, this lyrical concert work celebrates the gift of music: "With glad defiance in my throat, I pierce the darkness with a note, and sing."

A joy-filled journey through the many gifts that singing brings us! Memorable lines and contemporary harmonies are backed by energetic percussion for shaker, tambourine, and cajon. Easy to learn and

With energetic vocal lines, a driving accompaniment, and optional percussion (or body percussion), this piece challenges us to listen to the rhythm all around us. There is rhythm in nature, in our daily

"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 lovely setting of the O'Shaughnessy text builds slowly through its whimsical melodic development. Accompanied by a beautiful piano part, the movement in the choral lines leads to a triumphant and

This uplifting and affirmatory piece sets a text by the composer inspired by the reflections of the Northwest Girlchoir on what their choir means to them. A gradual building of choral texture creates an

This work was inspired by the Radcliffe Ladies' Choir and their motto, "Friendship through singing." The lilting vocal lines are underpinned by a delicate piano part, and the opening performance direction