Most of the pieces featured here were written or arranged for a church choir of 25-30 singers and range in difficulty from easy to moderate.
African Hosanna for SATB unaccompanied
The traditional text set in a style influenced by West African practice.
As I Went Down in the River to Pray for SATB unaccompanied
An arrangement of the iconic earworm from the classic O Brother, Where Art thou?
Bendigamos for SAB with harp or piano
This piece is an arrangement of a beautiful Sephardic (Jewish) song of blessing which is sung at table. The text is Ladino, which is similar to Spanish. There are no English words for singing, though a translation and pronunciation guide are provided.
Originally published in the TTB version by Transcontinental Publishing which, alas, is no more. The rights have come back to me, so I can share with you.
Cantaré Alabanzas al Señor (I Will Sing Praises to God) for SATB and congregation, solo, piano, guitar and 2 trumpets.
Its text taken from the Magnificat, this traditional Spanish song is bursting with joy and celebration.
Choral Sentences for SATB a cappella and accompanied
Gospel Responses for Lent, Christ the King, and Ordinary Time.
Christ Sends the Spirit for SATB, Organ and Brass Quartet
Something a little different from the typically gentle and lyrical invocation of the Holy Spirit. Raw and driving.
El Dio Alto for SAB, Harp, Guitar or Piano, and Optional Percussion
A traditional Jewish song of praise from the Sephardic tradition. The text is Ladino, a close cousin of Spanish. There is an English translation for meaning but not for singing. Also includes a pronunciation guide. Originally published by Transcontinental, it is now back in my hands!
Four Gospel Responses from American Spirituals for SATB a cappella
Poignant and affirming. Useful throughout the church year.
Gloria Patri for SATB and Leader
Something a little different for this staple of the liturgy. Set in a call-and-response manner reminiscent of some West African practice
Harvest of Heaven: Songs, Hymns and Chants of the Canterbury Shakers for SATB, Flute and Tambourine.
The hymns taken from the 1902 Hymnal of the Canterbury Shakers, here is a suite of lovely American tunes ranging from the robust to the breathlessly ethereal, the whole woven together by a solo flute. Also in TTBB.
Honey in the Rock for SATB a cappella
An arrangement of the African-American spiritual referencing the reassuring passage from Psalm 81.
Little David, Play on Your Harp for SSATB a cappella
Arrangement of a rousing African-American spiritual with multiple allusions to Old Testament stories about King David.
May I Speak Each Day for SATB and piano
Its text taken from the Carmina Gadelica, this piece was written for the ordination of a young pastor who would serve small churches in rural western New Mexico.
Michael, Row the Boat Ashore for SAB with guitar
A simple arrangement of the beloved spiritual and a Sunday-saver anthem.
O Come O Come Emmanuel for Choir, Congregation, and Handbells
The quintessential Advent hymn set for full community participation with the option of handbells to add texture and mood.
Quien Recibe al Niño for SATB, solo, piano, and melodica, harmonica or accordian
I heard this song sung by a group of school children in Antigua, Guatemala and was completely enchanted–by both the kids and the song! The text (“Whoever welcomes a child . . “) is from Mark 9:37.
Rocka My Soul for SATB a cappella
One of a series of “Sunday Saver” arrangements, intended to be learned in one or maybe two rehearsals.
Ruminations for SATB and Didgeridoo and Doumbek
Yes, didgeridoo! We had an extraordinary player at Ghost Ranch that year, so why not? You could also use any other kind of drone–Schruti Box or electronic equivalent, or just a sustained note on cello or bass. The text is from the Persian poet and mystic Rumi.
Tazama Wewe Nibwana for SATB a cappella
An arrangement of a song in Swahili from South Africa. The translation is something like this: “Look, you are the master, God of all flesh. Is there anything you cannot do?”
Viva, Jesus, Mi Amor for SATB with optional guitar
A delightful, lilting Spanish carol flexibly arranged for mixed voices and soloist(s). Can be done a cappella or with harmonic support of a guitar.