“Five from the Folder: Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands” by Sarah Ross

FIVE FROM THE FOLDER: ASIA, AUSTRALIA and the PACIFIC ISLANDS by Sara Ross

 

Absolutely stunning work that combines Aboriginal chant, imperial Christian hymn structure, and Outback mining work song for a commentary on the history of the Australian Bush. SATB divisi.

 

2. "Nodle Kangbyon." Traditional Korean arr. Wallace Hornady.  earthsongs W-12.

Beautiful melodic and harmonic language, easy stretch from 2- to 4-part treble.  

 

3. "Hiraita" Traditional Japanese arr. Ken Hakoda.  Santa Barbara SBMP 559.  

Simple folk song expanded to a multi-part fugue with descants and countermelodies.  Hauntingly beautiful.  Easy pitch content but complex SATB divisi.

 

4. "Tahiti" Traditional Tahitian arr. H Jarold Harris, Alfred 16336.  

Accessible four-part men's piece with handclaps, chants, and great Pacific Island sound.  Designed for piano accompaniment but works great when singers accompany on guitar/ukelele.  TTBB.

 

5. "Sweet Tooth" Stephen Hatfield.  Colla Voce 21-20214.  

Based on Australian Aboriginal chants, this challenging piece involves body percussion, non-traditional vocal sounds, and throbbing ostinatos.  Difficult but rewarding.  SSA.

 

(“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 )