Spirituals and Gospel Choral Music

A common theme among spirituals is "the great judgment day" and the idea of hope for a better future. Incorporating quotes from Great Day as well as original verses with a stylish gospel piano

Simple body percussion and an uncomplicated harmonic texture highlight the text in this traditional song that reflects on what it feels like to be alone. SEL assets, including lesson plans, suggestions, and

Quoting the spiritual Music in the Air, this piece features a driving gospel energy, lush harmonic color, intriguing counterpoint, and a dynamic piano part. The text talks about how singing

Your choirs will enjoy singing this original gospel-inspired concert setting of the much-loved Psalm 121 text. Fresh gospel harmonies, a dynamite piano accompaniment, and an upbeat tempo make this a

Poet Langston Hughes writes, "A long time ago, an enslaved people heading toward freedom made up a song: Keep Your Hand on the Plow! Hold On! The plow plowed a new furrow, and into that furrow, the

This traditional spiritual carries a universal message of optimism and hope for a brighter tomorrow. Repetition of text and melody along with growing dynamics create a powerfully dramatic effect throughout

In a rollicking concert gospel setting, this traditional spiritual really shines! The positive text brings a spirit of hope and optimism to the world, which is surely needed. The piano accompaniment and

This blues-flavored arrangement of the beloved spiritual makes a great addition to middle school and community treble choirs with its dynamic vocal parts and spirited piano accompaniment. The water image

Pulsing eighth notes in the piano bring instant energy to this arrangement. A unison rendering of the melody gives way to part singing, and this feel-good message will inspire everyone in the room!

What a powerful juxtaposition of two iconic African American spirituals: Wayfaring Stranger and I Want Jesus to Walk with Me. "I am a stranger in a strange land...how long must we cry

This beloved anthem of the civil rights movement retains its gospel flavor in this accessible arrangement. With simple harmonies, it is appropriate for use by most choirs. A supportive piano accompaniment

A powerful new setting of this traditional spiritual for treble voices. There is plenty of room for nuance, dynamic contrasts, independent voice parts, and the full vocal range required from the

The traditional spiritual gets a bluesy stylized setting with a fantastic piano accompaniment. Gospel harmonies and articulation, an a cappella section, and a layered bridge really highlight the choral

A prominent theme song in the early days of the civil rights movement, this was often referenced in the speeches of Martin Luther King. The day after his funeral, Blacks and Whites held hands in the streets

This arrangement takes a virtuosic Georgian style of gospel singing as its inspiration, which means the melody is incorporated into an improvisatory-style vocal line that is passed between voice parts.

Maya Angelou's famous text frames this majestic concert piece that celebrates diversity, equity, inclusion, and access to one's purpose and destiny. Dilworth's setting is in his classic style with

Dedicated to the memory of Moses Hogan, this original gospel-style piece brings an abundance of fervor and joy to the stage. Quoting the traditional spiritual This Little Light of Mine, it builds

With conservative ranges in all parts, this gospel-style spiritual arrangement is a great choice for younger choirs. Gospel harmonies, jazz and blues influences, bell-like effects, and a classic layered

Building on the heritage of the great arrangements of Jester Hairston and Moses Hogan, Rollo Dilworth has created his own unique approach to the traditional spiritual. Through layering of motivic material

This stylized gospel arrangement of the traditional spiritual features a terrific layered bridge section with traditional gospel stacking. Rock-solid choral writing and a beautifully written piano part give

With a slow gospel groove, this accessible concert work sets the traditional Latin text with full, rich harmonies in a slow 6/8. The piano accompaniment supports the harmonic motion while adding to the

This energetic original contemporary gospel piece has a wonderful groove and an uplifting message of self-empowerment. Staccato and accented vocals, expressive dynamics, and a repetition section moving up

"I'm gonna keep on 'til I find it, there is more love somewhere." This simple chorus from a traditional spiritual is a perfect theme for young singers. Alternating between accompanied and a cappella

This upbeat swing arrangement of a popular American spiritual features your accompanist with a honky-tonk flavored piano part. The positive message is set with approachable and enjoyable choral parts and an