Collegiate Youth and Student Activities Repertoire
Rachel Samet, Collegiate Youth and Student Activities Chair
Fresh Fruit by Carlos Cordero – I commissioned this piece as part of a Music and Poetry project geared toward Latinx students. The piece is a powerful take on vulnerability, the impact of immigration on families, and hope. A cappella.
O virtus sapientiae by Hildegard von Bingen, arr. Katerina Gimon – this is a highly effective “very old meets very new” a cappella piece. Gimon sets von Bingen’s chant, and adds cluster chords and overtone singing. Need two strong soloists with solid pitch accuracy. Versions for SATB and SSAA.
Never Wanted Broken by Leonard Patton, arr. Matt Falker – If you’re looking for a fresh a cappella piece by a black composer, check this out. It’s included here since many conductors might not think to look at AnchorMusic Publications, which is geared toward jazz choirs, but this piece also works great for choirs that don’t necessarily focus on jazz. The text is lovely and will be highly relatable for students.
grandmother moon by Eleanor Daley – a beautiful piece by the Canadian composer Eleanor Daley, with poetry by the Mi’kmaq poet Mary Louise Martin. Haunting harmonies and in many ways a meditation on night.
Rise, Shine arr. Marques L.A. Garrett – well-crafted arrangement of an African American spiritual. Hopeful message and a great opener.
Ego flos campi by Rafaella Aleotti – beautiful and short double choir piece by a female Renaissance composer. Could easily be done with a trio (SAT) for the second choir.
Wild Forces by Jake Runestad – Fun, upbeat and short piece. Great closer or encore. I especially like the version with string quartet.
Die mit tränen säen by Heinrich Schutz – SAATB a cappella Baroque piece. Great counterpoint with contrasting styles and moods within the piece.
How Can I Keep from Singing arr. Gwyneth Walker. While many conductors will already know this iconic piece, it is included here because some might not know that she has an arrangement with chamber orchestra (in addition to the more well-known arrangements for brass and percussion and piano). Several voicings available.
Stand in That River by Moira Smiley – heartfelt, easygoing “secular folk-spiritual.” Various voicings and key options, including trios and SATB. Flexible in terms of accompaniment and opportunities for solos.