Way Over in Beulah Lan'

Renowned choral conductor and educator Andre J. Thomas has crafted a book that the conductor of any choral ensemble will want close at hand when preparing to program any concert spiritual. Understanding the Spiritual, the first of the book's two sections, is an exploration of the beginnings of the spiritual, its role in society and its transition into art music. Issues of interpretation-text, diction, rhythm, and tempo-are addressed in the second section, Performing the Spiritual. Includes interviews with Dr. Anton Armstrong and Professor Judith Willougby. This practical book will help you develop a firm understanding of the spiritual and realize the full potential of the spirituals your choirs perform!