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

Upbeat and energetic, this spiritual setting is fresh and contemporary sounding, and it's a great confidence builder. Full of powerful and dramatic vocal effects and with carefully constructed ranges for

The simple yet powerful words of this traditional spiritual remind us always to let our lights shine. Complete with rich harmonies and a captivating gospel styled piano accompaniment, this accessible

This gospel arrangement of the traditional spiritual is not only restylized, it's given new text as well: "Over my head, I hear music in the air. There must be joy somewhere." Celebrate singing, music, and

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

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

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 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

Ever since Louis Armstrong incorporated this traditional spiritual into his swing-era sets, it has become a favorite jazz standard. Explore this vocal jazz setting in that swing style, carefully crafted for

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

"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 traditional arrangement of the time-honored spiritual is accessible for middle school choirs. The piece can be performed a cappella or with piano accompaniment and uses fully notated body percussion

Here's a rockin' arrangement of a traditional African American spiritual that your treble choir will love to sing! Feature a few soloists, and let your alto section really shine on the melody in the second

This gospel-style spiritual setting for children's choir is a sensitive arrangement in a slow groove. Opening with a statement of the well-known tune in unison, the piece then allows each voice part to

This timeless spiritual has been arranged with Rollo Dilworth's unique signature harmonies and wonderful piano writing, with some original material incorporated. The smooth gospel setting includes a strong

Adapted from the gospel-style interpretation of the hymn His Eye Is on the Sparrow originally performed and recorded by the Georgia Mass Choir, this setting is an inspirational choice for gospel,

Combing two African American spirituals - When the Train Comes Along and The Gospel Train - with additional lyrics by the composer, this song is exactly what we have come to expect from

With the finely crafted vocal arranging of Roger Emerson, this powerful spiritual can't miss! In the style of other Roger Emerson spiritual settings, this selection works wonderfully for young voices with

This upbeat spiritual is sure to make your singers and audience smile. The arrangement is accessible for two-part choirs, while syncopation, bluesy vocal riffs, staccato articulations, and melodic variation

This adventurous spiritual arrangement is a great confidence builder for developing choirs. With a stylistic nod to Dilworth, this gospel-tinged arrangement is powerful and dramatic, with interesting

The wistful layered melodies, undulating piano accompaniment, and plaintive violin obbligato create a mysterious atmosphere in this accessible work that tells the story of the Underground Railroad. Arranged

Charged with gospel-style excitement, this traditional spiritual comes alive with energy and style. A powerful chorus, hand claps, a stacked vocal section and a key change build to a big ending that is sure