“Five from the Folder: Church Choir” by Terre Johnson

FIVE FROM THE FOLDER: CHURCH CHOIR by Terre Johnson

 

1.  "He, Watching Over Israel." Felix Mendelssohn, G. Schirmer 50293760

The perfectly useful chorus from an extended work. Singable counterpoint and beautiful expressive elements.

 

2.  "There Is a Balm in Gilead."  William L. Dawson, Neil A. Kjos T105

Deeply moving, and valuable for working toward singing multi-ethnic music expressively and authentically.

 

3.  "His Voice as the Sound,  Alice Parker and Robert Shaw, Lawson-Gould 915

An example of the authenticity and simplicity of style that give the Shaw/Parker repertoire a unique place in the choral repertoire.

 

4.  "The Glory of the Father." Egil Hovland, Walton Music W2973

Exquisite setting of text, and an invaluable tool for working on a cappella singing. Also a springboard for discussion of form.

 

5.  "Cantique de Jean Racine. Gabriel Faure, Broude Brothers B. B. 801

Beautiful linear construction and arching phrases make it useful for developing musicianship and vocal expertise.

 

(“Five from the Folder” provides brief, text message-length reviews of vocal works currently in the folders of choral directors throughout the United States.  To share five from your folder, contact Scott Dorsey at )