We are blessed at Graphite to have such a deep pool of talented composers. It’s not always easy to keep up with all the great new music they produce! This week, we’re spotlighting some new works for treble and low voices that we’re eager to share with you.
Release
Saunder Choi Music
for TTB(B) and piano
Discover “Release,” a captivating tenor-bass honor choir piece that challenges society’s narrow view of masculinity. Through collaboration with trans, queer femme, two-spirit poet Amir Rabiyah, it delves into the multifaceted spectrum of gender identities. Experience the expressive piano, where rigid patterns clash with a rebellious undertone, symbolizing the breaking of societal norms. “Release” delivers a powerful message of strength and vulnerability.
“When I got the commission to write a tenor-bass honor choir piece, I thought it was a wonderful opportunity to address our flawed perspectives of masculinity. We have traditionally thought of gender identities in the binary with little space to acknowledge its expansive spectrum. I invited trans, queer femme, two-spirit poet Amir Rabiyah to reflect on what masculinity means to them. At the heart of it, Release speaks of emotional vulnerability as a source of strength and power.
The ostinato in the piano represents rigidity and the idea of society’s fixed thinking. It is intermittently interrupted by an alternate yet constant figure that goes against the beat, creating a polyrhythmic blur. The ostinato eventually concedes to a more fluid gesture when the weighted jacket is taken off.
Release was commissioned by the California Choral Directors Association for the 2023 All-State Tenor-Bass Honor Choir. The premiere was given at the California Music Educators Association (CASMEC) Conference in Fresno on February 2023.”
– Saunder Choi
Womankind
Emily Drum
Compose Like a Girl Series
for SSAA choir and cajón
Practice Tracks available!
Rich with natural metaphors, “Womankind” reflects on the resilience and strength of women. The piece leans into pop/contemporary styles and is a wonderful piece for singers to embrace their inner power. Featuring a text by 17-year old Taylee Heldt.
Check out Emily Drum’s feature on the Compose Like A Girl Podcast!
While I Breathe, I Hope
Jocelyn Hagen (JH Music)
for SSA choir and piano
The latin phrase “Dum Spiro Spero” translates to “While I breathe, I hope.” The phrase is of indeterminate origin, but featured as the motto for several places and organizations, including the U.S. state of South Carolina. This seemed a fitting addition to Brian Newhouse’s beautiful poem written during the pandemic. For me, nothing is quite as hopeful as song and the act of singing. This music should feel wonderful to sing, full of hope and joy, full- throated and flourishing.
Recorded by Voices of Facets, A Leadership Retreat for Women Conductors Conducted by Alicia Walker
We Are a Circle
Joan Szymko Music
for SAA, a cappella, perc
In earth and nature-based spiritual traditions such as Native American and contemporary Wicca, honoring the directions or “casting” a circle is an important opening ritual. This arrangement of Rick Hamouris’ “We Are a Circle” is fun, dynamic and energizing — a rousing concert opener.
Invitación
Julio Morales (Graphite Publishing)
for 2-part treble voices and piano
In this fun, easy song, young singers are encouraged to join voices in an easily singable melody. “Invitación” is also flexible; the second voice part is dispensable. Hand claps add a dynamic element while also teaching rhythm. The positive, happy text reminds children that everyone is welcome to join in the joy and laughter of life. For non-Spanish speakers, “Invitación” also serves as a great opportunity to sing in a new language.
Performed by Coro Comunitario del IVEC Acatl-tlan, Julio Morales, conductor
Every Fire
Timothy C. Takach Publications
for TTBB, piano
Takach has written an impressive, high-energy piece for TB singers. Conceived for a 9-12 grade TB mass choir, the piece uses unisons, motivic development and smart divisi to ensure that the music is accessible for young singers while being fulfilling for older singers. Coupled with a dramatic piano part, the combined result is spirited music that asks what might be within us? Who might we have the potential to be?
Nature Walks, Set I
Timothy Hoekman Music
for SSAA chorus a cappella
Four short poems by the witty Ogden Nash provide the texts for these songs for women’s chorus. These Nash creatures are sure to bring a chuckle (or at least a smile) to singers and audiences. The songs were commissioned for and premiered by the Lincoln High School Women’s Chorale in Tallahassee, Florida.
Nature Walks, Set II
Timothy Hoekman Music
for TTBB Chorus a cappella
Five short poems by the witty Ogden Nash provide the texts for these songs for men’s chorus. These Nash creatures are sure to bring a chuckle (or at least a smile) to singers and audiences.
Our Contributing Editor
Jonathan Campbell, BA, MSM, DMA, currently serves as Director of Music at Zion Lutheran Church, Anoka, MN., and is a Contributing Editor for Graphite Publishing. His music publishers include Augsburg Fortress, Concordia, Morningstar, GIA, Sacred Music Press, and Falls House. He won first prize in the Morningside Choral Composition Contest and was also awarded a Faith Partner’s Residency with the American Composer’s Forum. Jonathan has served many churches, conducted the Chorale of the Honors Choirs S.E. MN for eight years, and has served on the faculties of Winona State University, Augsburg University, and Pomona College.
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