“Five from the Folder: Treble Voices” by Emily Ellsworth

FIVE FROM THE FOLDER: TREBLE VOICES by Emily Ellsworth

 

1. “Friday Afternoons.”  Benjamin Britten.  Boosey & Hawkes.

A collection of 12 songs for Unison and 2 part and piano.  Accessible songbook written for Britten’s brother’s school choir, which met on Friday afternoons, hence the title.  In this year of Britten’s centennial, it’s worth revisiting this classic of the repertoire!

 

2. “Faith is the Bird that Feels the Light.” Elizabeth Alexander. Seafarer Press.

Three part a cappella.  Beautiful text, soulful yet energizing setting.  Singers and audiences love this piece.

 

3. “No Time: Two Camp Meeting Songs,” arr. Susan Brumfield. Colla Voce.

4 part and piano.  Not difficult; beautiful and very effective setting combining two historic American tunes.

 

4. “Puer Nobis Nascitur.” Andrea Ramsey. Boosey & Hawkes.

Unison to three part; great for combining multiple ensembles at holiday time.  Opens with a neo chant before a driving tempo with percussion is introduced.

 

5. “Sir Christemas.” David Brunner.

Another great piece for combining multiple ensembles: double choir, SSA + SSA.  Brass quintet, percussion, and organ.  Cheerful Renaissance text and vibrant setting.

 

(“Five from the Folder” provides brief, text-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 )