Secular Concert Openers and Closers

This final movement of Songs for the Journey is set to the traditional Irish blessing, "May the road rise up to meet you."

A Celtic inspired setting of the traditional Irish blessing text is supplemented with Latin phrases that echo the sentiment and layer the texture with elegance. The flowing piano accompaniment frames

Students will reinforce their sense of rhythm and meter changes in this engaging, celebratory, highly enjoyable piece. With or without the optional percussion, this festive number is the perfect closer for

A wide array of musical moods and artful contrasts are represented in this dynamic festival or concert selection. A striking minor theme opens the piece, enhanced by percussive handclaps. In the middle

This vibrant celebration in classic ABA form has a nice, syncopated opening and a contrasting lyrical middle section. It consists primarily of unison writing with some easily taught moments of two- and

A lively contemporary gospel-style piano accompaniment sets the feeling for this positive piece that is bound to be an audience pleaser. Tuneful upbeat melodies layer and create accessible harmonies that

Commissioned for a premiere performance at the Texas Music Educators Association 2000 convention, Joseph Martin's Come to the Music is alive and electric with driving rhythm, memorable melodies,

This is a cheerful song of community that is easy to learn and has a graceful piano accompaniment. A perfect selection for beginning harmony singers that will work well for starting your music class or as a

This stately and elegant setting of Purcell's masterwork from Birthday Ode for Queen Mary is adapted specifically for developing choirs. With vocal ranges that work well for young singers, the

This energetic setting of the traditional Latin text is ideal for developing choirs. A mixed-meter introduction followed by energetic syncopation and a contrasting middle section make this a great piece for

This simple song of gratitude celebrates a plentiful bounty of good things. It begins and ends sweetly, building to a sweeping descant-topped refrain. It's an expressive way to offer thanks at your concert

This inspirational original enhances the text by Louise Phillips on the theme that although unexpected events may happen, things can still turn out well. Strong rhythms and a festival feel create a positive

An expressive, through-composed setting of a traditional Celtic blessing. An appropriate choice for a concert closer, benediction, signature encore, or year-end send-off.

Beautifully capturing the essence of a traditional Gaelic blessing, this original setting evokes the natural tranquility of a "gentle night" where the "moon and stars pour their healing light on you." The

An uplifting, hope-filled message suited for every generation is carried by a gentle, lightly rhythmic melody. Optional divisi notes are indicated throughout, and the lovely flute obbligato adds a special

There is innocence and optimism in the way children view the world; this inspiring original captures the essence of their delight and wonder in a timeless message that speaks to everyone, young and old.

Exploring a wide variety of choral styles and textures including unison, call and response, and buoyant counterpoint, this piece invites all into a spirit of music making. A jubilant fanfare opening leads

Siegfried Sassoon's text depicts the unbridled joy at the end of the First World War mixed with bittersweet sorrow. The final phrase, "the singing will never be done" hints at the irony of this joy amid

This high-energy piece in a contemporary style is perfect as an opener in a concert or festival setting. Featuring a Latin text, the opening fanfare-like section leads to a contrapuntal middle section

A Latin text is set with syncopation and mixed meters in this energetic selection. Starting with a vocal unison and building the chord out from there, the rhythmically exciting choral parts are complemented