SATB Spirituals and Gospel Music

A setting of a Civil Rights-era standard with driving piano and simple, direct vocal arrangement with lots of unison singing. Accessible for choirs of any level and any age and a great cross-curricular

Based on the traditional spiritual Hold On, this a cappella arrangement adds new text, solo sections, an energetic rhythmic quality, and colorful harmonic textures while keeping the idea of the

This a cappella arrangement of the traditional spiritual set for baritone solo and SATB choir comes out of the work song tradition. The call and response between the soloist and choir is classic and offers

This exciting spiritual, with accompaniment for high, medium, and low conga drums, is an unusually appealing number suitable for a wide variety of uses, from smaller choirs to massed choir

This traditional Spiritual from the Underground Railroad movement is full of strong rhythmic energy. Full harmonies with well placed articulation and syncopated interaction make this arrangement

A thoughtful and simply constructed arrangement of this well-known spiritual that highlights the historical integrity of the song. A sense of urgency is apparent through the build-up of textures and

If you're looking for something a little different to perform in the spiritual style, take a close look at this nicely rhythmic setting by Greg Gilpin. Interlocking vocals sing over a pulsating piano

Opening with "Keep your lamps trimmed and burning!" as a dramatic rubato statement, this incredibly creative arrangement then kicks into a driving, rhythmically intense feel that never lets up!  A most

This energetic setting of a favorite is given a unique and energetic treatment by the arranger. Powerful, engaging and inspiring. The use of djembe helps to flavor the piece and support its rhythmic energy.

Kyrie is the first movement of Thomas' gospel-style Mass, displaying some of the most vibrant, captivating, and deeply inspired writing of his long, impressive career. Perform alone or with

Based on a traditional spiritual, with piano and optional percussion, this thoughtful concert work urges children to restore the earth through environmental advocacy and repair. Appropriate for Earth Day or

It is impossible not to be inspired by this soul-stirring gospel original. The accompaniment is rock solid, and the choral parts are incredibly gutsy, with dramatic dynamic swells and accents that will

In a bright, spirited a cappella swing, this traditional spiritual is so fun to learn and sing! The energy is built right in to the rhythmic text and the contemporary harmonies are delightful. An optional

In the traditional spiritual Let Me Fly, the chariot is presented as a symbol of freedom. This creative setting for mixed or treble choirs offers lots of opportunities for musical growth and

"O let me fly to Mount Zion, Lord!" This bright, uplifting spiritual has become a standard in the choral repertoire for divisi a cappella mixed choirs, and is a perennial favorite for festival performances.

This third movement from Averitt's collection of American shape note folk songs and hymns is Let Me Go. Presented in an a cappella setting that retains the style and traditional open harmonic

This classic arrangement is a great confidence-builder for developing choirs.  Powerful and dramatic, it makes an excellent concert or festival finale!