Recently, a friend asked if I had written any music for a particular type of ensemble, and I realized that a handy-dandy categorized guide to my music might be a helpful resource—especially as we enter the music selection season, also known as “summer”.
Before I get to the shameless self-promotion below (if that’s what you’re looking for, feel free to skip to the bold text below), I’d like to give a shout out to the many composer-centric publishers out there.
For a great explanation of the value of these publishers, see John Mackey’s thoughts on the music publication industry and Kurt Knecht’s introduction to the topic here. Speaking of, Kurt’s site https://musicspoke.com/ features several great artists including my friend, Saunder Choi. Additionally, J.D. Frizzell founded www.CadenzaOne.com, and there’s a lot of great music there from up and coming artists as well as scores that would otherwise be permanently out of print. Fahad Siadat’s http://seeadot.com/ (pun intended) will stretch your imagination in all kinds of great ways.
In many cases, you’ll pay less per title, living composers will make more per title, and you’ll be looking through carefully curated lists of artful new music. Everybody wins—especially your singers.
This isn’t to say that the traditional publishers are evil or should be banned, but maybe there is more out there to be explored. Just maybe.
So if you’d like to perform something I’ve written or composed, I've sorted them by voicing and ensemble type. Keep in mind, that if you see something you like that doesn't quite fit your group, I’m usually willing to adapt it to another voicing or accompaniment, so feel free to ask!
I’d also love to collaborate on something brand new and tailored to your ensemble. Composers will do almost anything for a guaranteed performance!
Click below to go directly to music from my catalog that I think is most appropriate for each voicing/level of choir:
Treble Choirs
Elementary/Middle School
Alabama Gal (Unison or 2-pt Choir with Piano)
This setting combines the classic folk tune with Morte! Lamentations and The Banjo by America's first rock star (aka composer), Louis Moreau Gottschalk. Alabama (or Buffalo or California...) Gal provides the perfect opportunity to feature an amazing accompanist while teaching students about counting 16th notes, singing arpeggiated triads, and changing tempos. Not to mention exploring Gottschalk's wild and crazy life. I've also provided an optional second part with limited range, perfect for boys with changing voices. Score
Il est bel et bon (2-part, a cappella)
This is an arrangement of the infamous chanson for two-part chorus. A cappella and accessible, it’s a great introduction to the genre for young singers. Score
Song in the Air (SA with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
Wade in the Water (SACB Flexible Choir with piano)
This jazz-inspired arrangement features a fantastic accompaniment that is written so that no improvisation is necessary (though in this style, it is always welcome). A cambiata part is included for boys with changing voices, and the arrangement is designed for maximum flexibility—SA, SSA, TB, SAB, SACB, and unison are all possible. Given the history of spirituals and the continuing consequences of the injustice that surrounded their creation, I will donate half of the proceeds from this arrangement to the NAACP Legal Deffense Fund. Score
High School
Alabama Gal (Unison or 2-pt Choir with Piano)
This setting combines the classic folk tune with Morte! Lamentations and The Banjo by America's first rock star (aka composer), Louis Moreau Gottschalk. Alabama (or Buffalo or California...) Gal provides the perfect opportunity to feature an amazing accompanist while teaching students about counting 16th notes, singing arpeggiated triads, and changing tempos. Not to mention exploring Gottschalk's wild and crazy life. I've also provided an optional second part with limited range, perfect for boys with changing voices.
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (SSA with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. Score
Il est bel et bon (2-part, a cappella)
This is an arrangement of the infamous chanson for two-part chorus. A cappella and accessible, it’s a great introduction to the genre for young singers. Score
Minstrel Boy (SSAA with piano)
This dramatic setting uses voices and piano to imitate traditional Irish instruments. A favorite of service personnel, the Irish air is perfect for tributes and memorials. Contact me for the score. TTBB Video
Song in the Air (SA with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
Wade in the Water (SACB Flexible Choir with piano)
This jazz-inspired arrangement features a fantastic accompaniment that is written so that no improvisation is necessary (though in this style, it is always welcome). A cambiata part is included for boys with changing voices, and the arrangement is designed for maximum flexibility—SA, SSA, TB, SAB, SACB, and unison are all possible. Given the history of spirituals and the continuing consequences of the injustice that surrounded their creation, I will donate half of the proceeds from this arrangement to the NAACP Legal Deffense Fund. Score
We Are the Music Makers (SSAA with piano)
This accessible setting brings O'Shaughnessy's famous text to life through lush harmonies, word painting, and exciting fanfares. Dedicated to the Randolph High School Class of 2011, and premiered by their Concert Choir in the Commencement Ceremonies. Please know that the accompaniment looks and sounds a LOT harder than it is to play (though it’s admittedly not super easy). Score SATB Video
…with music… (SSAA with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. ScoreScore
Collegiate
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (SSA with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. Score
Minstrel Boy (SSAA with piano)
This dramatic setting uses voices and piano to imitate traditional Irish instruments. A favorite of service personnel, the Irish air is perfect for tributes and memorials. Contact me for the score. TTBB Video
Song in the Air (SA with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
We Are the Music Makers (SSAA with piano)
This accessible setting brings O'Shaughnessy's famous text to life through lush harmonies, word painting, and exciting fanfares. Dedicated to the Randolph High School Class of 2011, and premiered by their Concert Choir in the Commencement Ceremonies. Please know that the accompaniment looks and sounds a LOT harder than it is to play (though it’s admittedly not super easy). Score SATB Video
…with music… (SSAA with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. Score
Church
Come, Christians Join to Sing (2-part with piano, congas, and optional C instrument)
Commissioned and premiered by the Music Makers and Young Musicians of First Baptist Church, Huntsville, AL for their 2010 Hymn Festival, this work weaves text and melody from five hymns into an infectious rhythmic motive. Score
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (SSA with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. Score
Holy God, We Praise Thy Name (2-part with piano)
Commissioned for the 10th Anniversary Diocese of Lexington Area Choir Concert, this setting of the classic hymn features a fantasia-style piano accompaniment supporting ethereal, accessible vocal lines. Marrying old (chant notation and canon) with new (aleatorism) techniques, it celebrates both tradition and innovation. Score
Song in the Air (SA with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
Wade in the Water (SACB Flexible Choir with piano)
This jazz-inspired arrangement features a fantastic accompaniment that is written so that no improvisation is necessary (though in this style, it is always welcome). A cambiata part is included for boys with changing voices, and the arrangement is designed for maximum flexibility—SA, SSA, TB, SAB, SACB, and unison are all possible. Given the history of spirituals and the continuing consequences of the injustice that surrounded their creation, I will donate half of the proceeds from this arrangement to the NAACP Legal Deffense Fund. Score
Mixed Choirs
Middle School
Alabama Gal (Unison or 2-pt Choir with Piano)
This setting combines the classic folk tune with Morte! Lamentations and The Banjo by America's first rock star (aka composer), Louis Moreau Gottschalk. Alabama (or Buffalo or California...) Gal provides the perfect opportunity to feature an amazing accompanist while teaching students about counting 16th notes, singing arpeggiated triads, and changing tempos. Not to mention exploring Gottschalk's wild and crazy life. I've also provided an optional second part with limited range, perfect for boys with changing voices.
Holy God, We Praise Thy Name (2-part with piano)
Commissioned for the 10th Anniversary Diocese of Lexington Area Choir Concert, this setting of the classic hymn features a fantasia-style piano accompaniment supporting ethereal, accessible vocal lines. Marrying old (chant notation and canon) with new (aleatorism) techniques, it celebrates both tradition and innovation. Score
Il est bel et bon (2-part, a cappella)
This is an arrangement of the infamous chanson for two-part chorus. A cappella and accessible, it’s a great introduction to the genre for young singers. Score
Wade in the Water (SACB Flexible Choir with piano)
This jazz-inspired arrangement features a fantastic accompaniment that is written so that no improvisation is necessary (though in this style, it is always welcome). A cambiata part is included for boys with changing voices, and the arrangement is designed for maximum flexibility—SA, SSA, TB, SAB, SACB, and unison are all possible. Given the history of spirituals and the continuing consequences of the injustice that surrounded their creation, I will donate half of the proceeds from this arrangement to the NAACP Legal Deffense Fund. Score
High School
All Things New (SATB, AT solos, and string quartet or piano)
All Things New was commissioned by Nicholas John Nickl to commemorate his ordination as a deacon. It allegorizes a near universal desire to improve upon our present condition and each individual's role in infusing life on earth with the love, joy, and peace of heaven. Video Piano Score
Der Erlkönig (SATB with piano)
This setting of Schubert's haunting lied uses unique choral voicings to portray the four different roles present in Goethe's poem. The accompaniment has been simplified, but it still works with the original (assuming you have an accompanist who can play what Schubert wrote). Score
Fire and Ice (SSATB, a cappella)
Fire and Ice takes Robert Frost’s well-known poem and weaves it into a dialogue—at times an argument—inviting both choir and audience to take sides. Because the text is so familiar, I didn’t concern myself with clarity in its setting, instead focusing on the similar vowel sounds central to key words. This leaves the conclusion up to the audience’s decision, even as late as the final chord, where both fire and ice sound simultaneously. Score Video
Four Irish Folk Songs (SATB with celtic band)
The Huntsville Community Chorus commissioned a set of Irish folk songs for their 2010 program, An Irish Spring. Parting Glass, Rocky Road to Dublin, and St. Brendan’s Fair Isle were performed in collaboration with the amazing celtic band, Slipjig. Auld Lang Syne was added for A Celtic Christmas a few years later. I’ve never published the scores due to their novelty, but I’d love for someone else to use them! Contact me for details.
Green Is the Color of Its Flame (SATB with Piano)
Commissioned for an April 2018 premiere, Green Is the Color of Its Flame celebrates spring with fanfares, flourishes, and fresh life! Pianistic writing underscores approachable vocal lines proclaiming Henry David Thoreau's inspiring text from Walden. Set your audience ablaze with the fire of life! Score available following the premiere. Contact me for details.
I’m Gonna Sing (SATB, a cappella)
Commissioned to mark the celebration of their 30th anniversary by the Roane Choral Society, this spirited setting is sure to bring down the house. Score
Kyrie from Redemption Mass (SSATB with SATB soloists, wind quintet, piano, and percussion)
This accessible, yet haunting Kyrie references ancient chants. It is the opening movement of Redemption Mass, 2013 American Choral Directors Association Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition winner. Score Video with Winds Video with Strings (Begins at 1:19:14)
Minstrel Boy (SATB with piano)
Commissioned for the Huntsville Community Chorus Association's An Irish Spring Concert (2010), this dramatic setting uses voices and piano to imitate traditional Irish instruments. A favorite of service personnel, the traditional Irish air is perfect for tributes and memorials. Score TTBB Video
O nata lux (SATB, a cappella)
This poignant, stark setting of the classic text was written in memory of those lost on September 11, 2001 and premiered by Triad: Boston’s Choral Collective (2015). Score Video
Presidential Campaign Songs Medley (SATB with various soloists and piano)
Before there were 30-second attack ads, there were Presidential Campaign Songs! This arrangement, commissioned and premiered by the Huntsville Community Chorus Association in 2008, is perfect for patriotic concerts during election years (and any other time when history or satire is on the program). Featuring consistent themes of American politics (drunkenness, character assassination, patriotism, and optimism), take a tour of the best and worst of presidential campaigns. Score
Sanctus from Redemption Mass (SSATB with SATB soloists, wind quintet or Strings, piano, and percussion)
This uplifting song of praise uses ostinato to recreate an environment of praise and prayer depicted in Isaiah 6. It is the fourth movement of Redemption Mass, 2013 American Choral Directors Association Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition winner. Score Video with Winds Video with Strings (Begins at 1:31:21)
Song in the Air (SATB with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
We Are the Music Makers (SATB with piano)
This accessible setting brings O'Shaughnessy's famous text to life through lush harmonies, word painting, and exciting fanfares. Dedicated to the Randolph High School Class of 2011, and premiered by their Concert Choir in the Commencement Ceremonies. Please know that the accompaniment looks and sounds a LOT harder than it is to play (though it’s admittedly not super easy). Score Video
…with music… (SATB with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. Score
Collegiate
All Things New (SATB, AT soloists, and string quartet or piano)
All Things New was commissioned by Nicholas John Nickl to commemorate his ordination as a deacon. It allegorizes a near universal desire to improve upon our present condition and each individual's role in infusing life on earth with the love, joy, and peace of heaven. Video Piano Score
Fire and Ice (SSATB, a cappella)
Fire and Ice takes Robert Frost’s well-known poem and weaves it into a dialogue—at times an argument—inviting both choir and audience to take sides. Because the text is so familiar, I didn’t concern myself with clarity in its setting, instead focusing on the similar vowel sounds central to key words. This leaves the conclusion up to the audience’s decision, even as late as the final chord, where both fire and ice sound simultaneously. Score Video
Four Irish Folk Songs (SATB with Celtic Band)
The Huntsville Community Chorus commissioned a set of Irish folk songs for their 2010 program, An Irish Spring. Parting Glass, Rocky Road to Dublin, and St. Brendan’s Fair Isle were performed in collaboration with the amazing celtic band, Slipjig. Auld Lang Syne was added for A Celtic Christmas a few years later. I’ve never published the scores due to their novelty, but I’d love for someone else to use them! Contact me for details.
Green Is the Color of Its Flame (SATB with Piano)
Commissioned for an April 2018 premiere, Green Is the Color of Its Flame celebrates spring with fanfares, flourishes, and fresh life! Pianistic writing underscores approachable vocal lines proclaiming Henry David Thoreau's inspiring text from Walden. Set your audience ablaze with the fire of life! Score available following the premiere. Contact me for details.
I’m Gonna Sing (SATB, a cappella)
Commissioned to mark the celebration of their 30th anniversary by the Roane Choral Society, this spirited setting is sure to bring down the house. Score
Lacrimas (SATB, S soloist, a cappella)
Lacrimas weaves the familiar Psalm text, "They that sow in tears will reap in joy" into a poignant moment from St. Augustine's confessions: "And sending out tears, where I was holding them in, so that they should flow so smoothly, they spread out beneath my heart and it rests on them." Musically, the piece develops in waves that emanate from the opening “sobbing” gesture. Rest finally arrives in the final, optimistic, upward resolution. The University of Alabama in Huntsville Chamber Choir premiered the work under the direction of Dr. Erin Colwitz-Dehning as part of the Huntsville New Music Festival of 2011. Score Video
Masters in This Hall (SSAATTBB, a cappella)
This exuberant carol unfolds like gossip crossing the hills. Whispers gradually grow into song as news of the newborn savior traverses the globe. Premiered by the Mercer Singers of Mercer University for the 2002 Southeastern Composers League Conference. Score
Minstrel Boy (SATB with piano)
Commissioned for the Huntsville Community Chorus Association's An Irish Spring Concert (2010), this dramatic setting uses voices and piano to imitate traditional Irish instruments. A favorite of service personnel, the Irish Air is perfect for tributes and memorials. Score TTBB Video
O nata lux (SATB, a cappella)
This poignant, stark setting of the classic text was written in memory of those lost on September 11, 2001 and premiered by Triad: Boston’s Choral Collective (2015). Score Video
A Parable of Choices (SATB, ST soloists, a cappella)
A Parable of Choices won the 2013 Yale Glee Club Emerging Composers Competition. Its text alternates between Wilfred Owen's gripping anti-war poem, The Parable of the Old Man and the Young and Genesis 22, verses 8 and 13. The parable presents a relentlessly confrontational choice: humility vs pride; life vs. death; peace vs. war. Though one may see it as a rebuke of national hubris, these concepts resonate most vibrantly for me when held up to the daily decisions of life. In our habits of commerce, travel, communication, and the like, may we move consistently toward humility, life, and peace. Video Score
Presidential Campaign Songs Medley (SATB with various soloists and piano)
Before there were 30-second attack ads, there were Presidential Campaign Songs! This arrangement, commissioned and premiered by the Huntsville Community Chorus Association in 2008, is perfect for patriotic concerts during election years (and any other time when history or satire is on the program). Featuring consistent themes of American politics (drunkenness, character assassination, patriotism, and optimism), take a tour of the best and worst of presidential campaigns. Score
Redemption Mass (SSATB with SATB soloists, wind quintet or Strings, piano, and percussion)
Winner of the 2013 American Choral Directors Association Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition, this concert mass is a tuneful, rhythmic, and inspiring setting of traditional and non-traditional texts. Premiered by the Blue Valley Northwest High School Choirs and Symphonic Orchestra on January 25, 2018, Beth Richey-Sullivan and Michael Arbucci, directors. Vocal Score Video (First Four Movements with Winds) Video (Complete Premiere with Strings, Begins at 1:19:14)
Sinner, Please (SSAATTBB, a cappella)
Sinner, Please is an intense plea for reconciliation, but it is also a reference to the urgency of the Underground Railroad. May this song remind us that time is fleeting and that we must make the most of what little we have. Score
…with music… (SATB with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. Score
Adult/Professional
All Things New (SATB, AT soloists, and string quartet or piano)
All Things New was commissioned by Nicholas John Nickl to commemorate his ordination as a deacon. It allegorizes a near universal desire to improve upon our present condition and each individual's role in infusing life on earth with the love, joy, and peace of heaven. Video Piano Score
Green Is the Color of Its Flame (SATB with Piano)
Commissioned for an April 2018 premiere, Green Is the Color of Its Flame celebrates spring with fanfares, flourishes, and fresh life! Pianistic writing underscores approachable vocal lines proclaiming Henry David Thoreau's inspiring text from Walden. Set your audience ablaze with the fire of life! Score available following the premiere. Contact me for details.
Lacrimas (SATB, S soloist, a cappella)
Lacrimas weaves the familiar Psalm text, "They that sow in tears will reap in joy" into a poignant moment from St. Augustine's confessions: "And sending out tears, where I was holding them in, so that they should flow so smoothly, they spread out beneath my heart and it rests on them." Musically, the piece develops in waves that emanate from the opening “sobbing” gesture. Rest finally arrives in the final, optimistic, upward resolution. The University of Alabama in Huntsville Chamber Choir premiered the work under the direction of Dr. Erin Colwitz-Dehning as part of the Huntsville New Music Festival of 2011. Score Video
Masters in This Hall (SSAATTBB, a cappella)
This exuberant carol unfolds like gossip crossing the hills. Whispers gradually grow into song as news of the newborn savior traverses the globe. Premiered by the Mercer Singers of Mercer University for the 2002 Southeastern Composers League Conference. Score
O nata lux (SATB, a cappella)
This poignant, stark setting of the classic text was written in memory of those lost on September 11, 2001 and premiered by Triad: Boston’s Choral Collective (2015). Score Video
Redemption Mass (SSATB with SATB soloists, wind quintet or strings, piano, and percussion)
Winner of the 2013 American Choral Directors Association Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition, this concert mass is a tuneful, rhythmic, and inspiring setting of traditional and non-traditional texts. Premiered by the Blue Valley Northwest High School Choirs and Symphonic Orchestra on January 25, 2018, Beth Richey-Sullivan and Michael Arbucci, directors. Vocal Score Video (First Four Movements with Winds) Video (Complete Premiere with Strings Begins at 1:19:14)
Sinner, Please (SSAATTBB, a cappella)
Sinner, Please is an intense plea for reconciliation, but it is also a reference to the urgency of the Underground Railroad. May this song remind us that time is fleeting and that we must make the most of what little we have. Score
…with music… (SATB with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. Score
Adult/Community
All Things New (SATB, AT soloists, and string quartet or piano)
All Things New was commissioned by Nicholas John Nickl to commemorate his ordination as a deacon. It allegorizes a near universal desire to improve upon our present condition and each individual's role in infusing life on earth with the love, joy, and peace of heaven. Video Piano Score
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (SATB with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. Score
Der Erlkönig (SATB with piano)
This setting of Schubert's haunting lied uses unique choral voicings to portray the four different roles present in Goethe's poem. The accompaniment has been simplified, but it still works with the original (assuming you have an accompanist who can play what Schubert wrote). Score
Fire and Ice (SSATB, a cappella)
Fire and Ice takes Robert Frost’s well-known poem and weaves it into a dialogue—at times an argument—inviting both choir and audience to take sides. Because the text is so familiar, I didn’t concern myself with clarity in its setting, instead focusing on the similar vowel sounds central to key words. This leaves the conclusion up to the audience’s decision, even as late as the final chord, where both fire and ice sound simultaneously. Score Video
Four Irish Folk Songs (SATB with celtic band)
The Huntsville Community Chorus commissioned a set of Irish folk songs for their 2010 program, An Irish Spring. Parting Glass, Rocky Road to Dublin, and St. Brendan’s Fair Isle were performed in collaboration with the amazing celtic band, Slipjig. Auld Lang Syne was added for A Celtic Christmas a few years later. I’ve never published the scores due to their novelty, but I’d love for someone else to use them! Contact me for details.
Green Is the Color of Its Flame (SATB with Piano)
Commissioned for an April 2018 premiere, Green Is the Color of Its Flame celebrates spring with fanfares, flourishes, and fresh life! Pianistic writing underscores approachable vocal lines proclaiming Henry David Thoreau's inspiring text from Walden. Set your audience ablaze with the fire of life! Score available following the premiere. Contact me for details.
I’m Gonna Sing (SATB, a cappella)
Commissioned to mark the celebration of their 30th anniversary by the Roane Choral Society, this spirited setting is sure to bring down the house. Score
Minstrel Boy (SATB with piano)
Commissioned for the Huntsville Community Chorus Association's An Irish Spring Concert (2010), this dramatic setting uses voices and piano to imitate traditional Irish instruments. A favorite of service personnel, the Irish air is perfect for tributes and memorials. Score TTBB Video
O nata lux (SATB, a cappella)
This poignant, stark setting of the classic text was written in memory of those lost on September 11, 2001 and premiered by Triad: Boston’s Choral Collective (2015). Score Video
Presidential Campaign Songs Medley (SATB with various soloists and piano)
Before there were 30-second attack ads, there were Presidential Campaign Songs! This arrangement, commissioned and premiered by the Huntsville Community Chorus Association in 2008, is perfect for patriotic concerts during election years (and any other time when history or satire is on the program). Featuring consistent themes of American politics (drunkenness, character assassination, patriotism, and optimism), take a tour of the best and worst of presidential campaigns. Score
Redemption Mass (SSATB with SATB soloists, wind quintet or Strings, piano, and percussion)
Winner of the 2013 American Choral Directors Association Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition, this concert mass is a tuneful, rhythmic, and inspiring setting of traditional and non-traditional texts. Premiered by the Blue Valley Northwest High School Choirs and Symphonic Orchestra on January 25, 2018, Beth Richey-Sullivan and Michael Arbucci, directors. Vocal Score Video (First Four Movements with Winds) Video (Complete Premiere with Strings Begins at 1:19:14)
Song in the Air (SATB with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
We Are the Music Makers (SATB with piano)
This accessible setting brings O'Shaughnessy's famous text to life through lush harmonies, word painting, and exciting fanfares. Dedicated to the Randolph High School Class of 2011, and premiered by their Concert Choir in the Commencement Ceremonies. Please know that the accompaniment looks and sounds a LOT harder than it is to play (though it’s admittedly not super easy). Score Video
…with music… (SATB with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. Score
Adult/Church
All Things New (SATB, AT soloists, and string quartet or piano)
All Things New was commissioned by Nicholas John Nickl to commemorate his ordination as a deacon. It allegorizes a near universal desire to improve upon our present condition and each individual's role in infusing life on earth with the love, joy, and peace of heaven. Video Piano Score
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (SATB with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. SATB Score (Contact me for SAB SCORE)
Holy God, We Praise Thy Name (2-part with piano)
Commissioned for the 10th Anniversary Diocese of Lexington Area Choir Concert, this setting of the classic hymn features a fantasia-style piano accompaniment supporting ethereal, accessible vocal lines. Marrying old (chant notation and canon) with new (aleatorism) techniques, it celebrates both tradition and innovation. Score
I’m Gonna Sing (SATB, a cappella)
Commissioned to mark the celebration of their 30th anniversary by the Roane Choral Society, this spirited setting is sure to bring down the house. Score
O nata lux (SATB, a cappella)
This poignant, stark setting of the classic text was written in memory of those lost on September 11, 2001 and premiered by Triad: Boston’s Choral Collective (2015). Score Video
Redemption Mass (SSATB with SATB soloists, wind quintet or Strings, piano, and percussion)
Winner of the 2013 American Choral Directors Association Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition, this concert mass is a tuneful, rhythmic, and inspiring setting of traditional and non-traditional texts. Premiered by the Blue Valley Northwest High School Choirs and Symphonic Orchestra on January 25, 2018, Beth Richey-Sullivan and Michael Arbucci, directors. Vocal Score Video (First Four Movements with Winds) Video (Complete Premiere with Strings Begins at 1:19:14)
Song in the Air (SATB with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
Student/Church
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (SATB with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. SATB Score (Contact me for the SAB score.)
Holy God, We Praise Thy Name (2-part with piano)
Commissioned for the 10th Anniversary Diocese of Lexington Area Choir Concert, this setting of the classic hymn features a fantasia-style piano accompaniment supporting ethereal, accessible vocal lines. Marrying old (chant notation and canon) with new (aleatorism) techniques, it celebrates both tradition and innovation. Score
Song in the Air (SATB with piano)
This haunting Appalachian melody captures the peaceful magic of the first Christmas morning. Written for and premiered by the Randolph School Concert Choir, it is among my most often performed arrangements. Score
Wade in the Water (SACB Flexible Choir with piano)
This jazz-inspired arrangement features a fantastic accompaniment that is written so that no improvisation is necessary (though in this style, it is always welcome). A cambiata part is included for boys with changing voices, and the arrangement is designed for maximum flexibility—SA, SSA, TB, SAB, SACB, and unison are all possible. Given the history of spirituals and the continuing consequences of the injustice that surrounded their creation, I will donate half of the proceeds from this arrangement to the NAACP Legal Deffense Fund. Score
TTBB Choirs
High School
Alabama Gal (Unison or 2-pt Choir with Piano)
This setting combines the classic folk tune with Morte! Lamentations and The Banjo by America's first rock star (aka composer), Louis Moreau Gottschalk. Alabama (or Buffalo or California...) Gal provides the perfect opportunity to feature an amazing accompanist while teaching students about counting 16th notes, singing arpeggiated triads, and changing tempos. Not to mention exploring Gottschalk's wild and crazy life. I've also provided an optional second part with limited range, perfect for boys with changing voices.
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (TBB with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. Score
Il est bel et bon (2-part, a cappella)
This is an arrangement of the infamous chanson for two-part chorus. A cappella and accessible, it’s a great introduction to the genre for young singers. Score
Minstrel Boy (TTBB with piano)
This arrangement was commissioned for the University of Kentucky Men’s Chorus and uses voices and piano to imitate traditional Irish instruments. A favorite of service personnel, the Irish air is perfect for tributes and memorials. Score Video
Wade in the Water (SACB Flexible Choir with piano)
This jazz-inspired arrangement features a fantastic accompaniment that is written so that no improvisation is necessary (though in this style, it is always welcome). A cambiata part is included for boys with changing voices, and the arrangement is designed for maximum flexibility—SA, SSA, TB, SAB, SACB, and unison are all possible. Given the history of spirituals and the continuing consequences of the injustice that surrounded their creation, I will donate half of the proceeds from this arrangement to the NAACP Legal Deffense Fund. Score
We Are the Music Makers (TTBB with piano)
This accessible setting brings O'Shaughnessy's famous text to life through lush harmonies, word painting, and exciting fanfares. Dedicated to the Randolph High School Class of 2011, and premiered by their Concert Choir in the Commencement Ceremonies. Please know that the accompaniment looks and sounds a LOT harder than it is to play (though it’s admittedly not super easy). ScoreSATB Video
…with music… (TTBB with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. Score
Collegiate
Alabama Gal (Unison Choir with Piano)
This setting combines the classic folk tune with Morte! Lamentations and The Banjo by America's first rock star (aka composer), Louis Moreau Gottschalk. Alabama (or Buffalo or California...) Gal provides the perfect opportunity to feature an amazing accompanist while teaching students about counting 16th notes, singing arpeggiated triads, and changing tempos. Not to mention exploring Gottschalk's wild and crazy life. Score
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (TBB with piano and congas)
This arrangement features a fresh rhythmic take on the classic hymntune. Using subtle text-painting, it presents the text in a meaningful, creative way. The piece was composed for and premiered by the University of Tennessee Women's Chorale. Score
Minstrel Boy (TTBB with piano)
This arrangement was commissioned for the University of Kentucky Men’s Chorus and uses voices and piano to imitate traditional Irish instruments. A favorite of service personnel, the Irish air is perfect for tributes and memorials. Score Video
We Are the Music Makers (TTBB with piano)
This accessible setting brings O'Shaughnessy's famous text to life through lush harmonies, word painting, and exciting fanfares. Dedicated to the Randolph High School Class of 2011, and premiered by their Concert Choir in the Commencement Ceremonies. Please know that the accompaniment looks and sounds a LOT harder than it is to play (though it’s admittedly not super easy). Score SATB Video
…with music… (TTBB with piano)
Commissioned and premiered by Louisville's Youth Performing Arts School Gentlemen's Ensemble, under the direction of Jacob Cook for the Intercollegiate Male Chorus Festival of 2014 hosted by Rutgers University. This work combines two previously unpublished songs by Kentucky Composer (and graduate of Louisville's Manual High School) John Jacob Niles. Come Gentle Dark and Epitaph provide a poignant look into the composer's later views on life and death interwoven with beautiful melodies and subtle harmonic surprises. Score