“Five from the Folder: Mixed Voices” by Rika R. Heruth

FIVE FROM THE FOLDER:  MIXED VOICES by Rika R. Heruth

 

1.  “Buccinate in Neomenia Tuba.” Giovanni Croce. Mark Foster Music Co. No. 423

A double choir motet inspired by the architecture of St. Mark’s Cathedral.  The cori spezzati style of this work is filled with musical metaphors!  An exciting opener!

2.  “Sehnsucht.”  Johannes Brahms. CPDL
Literally meaning “Longing” pays homage to the Hungarian life, lost youth, and memories.  Beautiful duets and lyrical choral writing against a colorful piano accompaniment. 

3.  “Balleilakka.” arr. Ethan Sperry. earthsongs S339
An example from Indian cinematic pop music.  A tongue-twister of syllabic patterns and full choral sonorities, it is a multicultural work to bring down the house. 

4.  “Without a Song”  arr. Kirby Shaw. Alfred Publishing CH9537
From the 1929 musical “Great Day”, recorded by greats like Perry Como, Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennet, this text is heartwarming for any age and is done with beautiful voice leading and harmonic interest. 

5.  “Make Our Garden Grow” from Candide.  Leonard Bernstein. Boosey & Hawkes M051462223
Epic closing number from this operetta is a choral powerhouse, accompanied by 4-hand piano orchestral reduction.  Message suitable for a concert closer, end of year or graduation.  

 

(“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 )