Socially Responsive Selections

This reimagined interpretation of the classic Bob Dylan song is a perfect choice for choirs looking for socially responsive music. The reharmonization and contrasting musical style will bring new attention

"To sit and dream ... all you who are dreamers, too. Help me make our world anew. I reach out my hands to you." These transformative words penned by Langston Hughes beckon us to reach toward the dreams of a

This is a rhythmic, contemporary gospel-style anthem featuring the words of Maya Angelou, charging all of us to take responsibility for making our communities safe, supportive, and just. Reinforced by a

Celebrating the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, the critically acclaimed film "Harriet" features this amazing song performed by Cynthia Erivo. With strong spiritual and gospel influences, this powerful

Setting inspiring words by James Weldon Johnson, this work is poignant and stirring, encouraging singers and listeners to reflect on the challenges of present times and to move forward with courage and

This is the stand-alone third movement from the powerful suite You Are Enough, which hopes to open conversations about mental health. With a modern musical-theater quality, it expresses its

The text of this powerful choral work is addressed to anyone facing struggles and it presents an honest affirmation that those struggles are real. Rather than deny the existence of problems or pain, the

Described as "brilliant" and "heartfelt," this is the final movement of Craig Hella Johnson's epic work "Considering Matthew Shepard," a tribute to the young gay man who has become an American icon and a

This contemporaneous response to the war in Ukraine is both stirring and soothing in its simplicity. Its call for peace is dedicated to the people of Ukraine and to all who suffer the violence of war. All

Hoping to inspire reconciliation on a community and individual level, the composer seeks to build a caring community and find unity through this melodic piece. Blending elements of pop and gospel, and

From Craig Hella Johnson's important work, this piece is a wonderful feature for soprano soloist and choir. Styled like a folk hymn, this beautiful piece promotes healing and acceptance in a lush a cappella

"We sing out the truth against hunger and hate. We sing out for justice before it's too late!" A socially responsive text from Charles Anthony Silvestri is given a dramatic setting for mixed or treble

If you say the name, you're prompted to learn the story. Promote inclusivity and awareness with Say Her Name, written specifically to highlight elements of the Kwanzaa ceremony. Featuring body

This three-movement suite for tenor-bass choirs is intended to elevate conversations regarding mental health. The composer brings his sense of the dramatic to this powerful score. The first movement,

Remembering a time when life was full of promise and dreaming was an activity filled with hope, a tenor soloist carries this stirring piece from Craig Hella Johnson's major work. With a contemporary

The profound work Considering Matthew Shepard has been moving audiences around the world with its compelling message of love and acceptance. An abbreviated version of the larger work, this

Capturing the importance of the Eloise Greenfield poem and the dramatic story of Harriet Tubman's life, this original work also includes the spirituals If I Got My Ticket and Go

A dramatic and encouraging text by Georgia Douglas Johnson provides the inspiration for the music in this choral piece. Well-crafted choral lines with occasional counterpoint drive home the uplifting

Imagined and created for a Leonard Bernstein 100th anniversary celebration, We Reply was inspired by his famous quote about making art in the face of adversity. It bursts forth with rhythmic energy

Commissioned by the professional choir EXIGENCE and using the famous Maya Angelou text The Caged Bird, here is a concert setting that explores various tonalities and will challenge even the

"When in the course of human events, a more perfect union makes most perfect sense. In the land of the free, oh say can you see, then we will have justice and peace..." With themes of social justice,

Highlighting the actions of Rosa Parks and suffragist Alice Paul, She Stood for Freedom was inspired by everyday people who have employed nonviolent means to stand up for equality and the rights of others.

Drawing inspiration from 13 of the most influential women in American history, this 11-movement song cycle for mixed voices, piano, and cello chronicles quotes and ideals from women that have most

This second movement of Two Suffrage Songs is based on the spiritual Sit Down, Sister! The upbeat nature of the music reflects the energy and motivation of the strong women