“Five from the Folder: Mixed Voices” by Elizabeth Schauer

FIVE FROM THE FOLDER:  MIXED VOICES by Elizabeth Schauer

 

1.  “Missa Cellensis in C” (Mariazellermesse), H.XXII:8. F.J. Haydn. Carus-Verlag.

An extended work in Haydn’s typical, buoyant style.  Large choral role, challenging but accessible, including expected fugues, virtuosic solo writing, sparkling orchestration.

 

2.  “Abendlied,” Op. 69, no. 3.  Josef Rheinberger. CPDL.

For unaccompanied voices in 6 parts, a sublime, plaintive prayer for comfort. Points of imitation, suspensions and lush washes of harmonic color create a rich musical fabric.

 

3.  “Ecce sacerdos,” WAB 13.  Anton Bruckner. CPDL.

A lesser-known motet for SSAATTBB, 3 trombones and organ.  Bruckner’s sumptuous harmonies pervade majestic antiphonal sections and contrasting poignant passages. 

 

4.  “Unentrinnbar” (Inescapable) from 4 Pieces, Op. 27, no. 1.  Arnold Schoenberg.  Universal Edition.

A good, short (31-bar) introduction to dodecaphony.  Bars 1-24 feature a strict canon between soprano and tenor, with alto and bass in canon on an inversion of their tune.

 

5.  “Ride the Chariot.” arr. William Henry Smith.  Neil A. Kjos Music Co.

2015 is the 150th anniversary of the end of the Civil War – a great time to celebrate our heritage of spirituals, including this vigorous “coded message” piece for SATB and solo.

 

(“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 )