2023 ACDA Oxford Reading Session

Setting words by Chief Dan George, this optimistic work reminds us that there is still beauty to be found in times of trouble and that difficult days will not last forever. This sensitive setting uses

This atmospheric setting of the celebrated poem by the Harlem Renaissance writer Langston Hughes captures the sense of comfort and security while listening to rainfall. The ebb and flow, careful phrasing,

Written for the Skylark Vocal Ensemble in 2021, this a cappella work is set for narrator, SATB soloists, and SATB choir (with optional bones!). Sheehan weaves original works and familiar carols around the

In this beautiful setting of words by the composer based on a quote from Brian Palmer, singers are encouraged to listen to the sounds and people around them in order to learn and grow: "One act of love, I

This dynamic collection presents four jazzy settings of favorite madrigals by Thomas Morley, John Bennet, and Orlando Gibbons. The first, Sing We and Chant It, is a relaxed jazz waltz with a

This vibrant setting of a poem by George Parsons Lathrop describes how music underpins all earthly life. An active piano part provides an energetic undercurrent to compelling vocal lines, with the voices

Setting inspiring words by James Weldon Johnson, this work is poignant and stirring, encouraging singers and listeners to reflect on the challenges of present times and to move forward with courage and

This landmark collection of 35 choral selections from the 16th century to the present day provides a comprehensive introduction to an area of choral music that has been historically underrepresented. The

This setting of Psalm 105 and John 7 imaginatively depicts the "rivers of living water" and the contrasting "parched land" in episodic form, providing musical structure, variety, color, and atmosphere. An

This lovely setting of the O'Shaughnessy text builds slowly through its whimsical melodic development. Accompanied by a beautiful piano part, the movement in the choral lines leads to a triumphant and