2023 ACDA Santa Barbara Reading Session

The elegant beauty of Francis Ledwidge's poem about the late summer shimmers in this original work for a cappella mixed chorus. Slowly moving harmonies that range between four and six parts ebb and flow

William Straub's text implores us to "dance for beauty, dance for laughter, dance for love" in this heartfelt original work. The evocative piano accompaniment adds to and supports the voices. There are many

Translated as "Let's Rejoice Today," this celebratory original piece combines a short Latin and English text with a simple mixed meter setting that is a wonderful way to open a concert or service at any

Narverud's original text expresses the thought that while the weight of the cares of this world is very heavy, we can shine our light into the world to bring hope. Translated into Latin, this text is set

A fascinating mix of English and Arabic text reinforces the universal message to open our minds, hearts, and hands to each other. The lively piano accompaniment, notated djembe percussion part, and

Following in the footsteps of his popular Hands Are Knockin', the composer returns with another original containing a positive and uplifting message. With a fun piano part and speech-driven rhythms

This Hebrew folk song is set in an easy, tasteful lyrical arrangement with a flowing piano accompaniment and flute obbligato. Sing in the original Hebrew or with the singable English lyrics included. The

This very accessible piece pairs a beautifully written vocal and piano score with the Langston Hughes poem that warns us to "Hold fast to dreams... for when dreams go, life is a barren field frozen with

With a slower introductory section, this a cappella arrangement of the beloved traditional spiritual really picks up in tempo and intensity. With carefully crafted choral parts, the ranges are limited and

This original a cappella spiritual expertly blends a variety of styles into an appealing package that will be a standout selection for your choir. Effectively combining spiritual, gospel, contemporary a

"Every door you enter, you find a piece of something inside you never knew." Character-building texts of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and self-worth are set beautifully to music that is accessible to

A new twist on a timeless carol, this setting of Christina Rossetti's poem features Holst's original melody and harmonization along with new connective material between the verses and beautiful cluster

This upbeat traditional isiXhosa song from South Africa is a memorable and enjoyable statement for choirs. The authentic a cappella setting includes a guide to the suggested simple choral movement along

A shimmering, luminescent musical setting of an original text, this concert work is replete with lyricism and musical sensitivity. The text speaks of ancient trees that represent longevity, wisdom, and

With glorious suspensions and modern parallel a cappella movement, this original piece explores the promises we can make to the people we love to wait with them through the difficult seasons of life. With