Three Choral Compositions to know in January 2020

I want to start a new monthly post where I list three choral compositions that I want people to know more about! I am excited about it because I listen to so much new music that I always want to share it with others. I will work on how this new series of posts look and their content, but for now, here is the first installment of the Three Choral Compositions to know in January 2020. If you are a conductor, you will love them as much as I do!

**Full disclaimer, I will include one of my pieces on the list as I exercise feeling comfortable with self-promotion. I will also see if I can do 5 pieces a month so I can help more composers 🙂 **

1. Write it on Your Heart – Marjorie Halloran

Program Notes from the composer: Ralph Waldo Emerson’s text ‘Write it on Your Heart’ explores the philosophy of carpe diem, meaning seize the day. Emerson’s words describe how we as humans should do our best to let go of our frets and anxieties and live in the moment as if every day were the best day of the year. Halloran’s setting, for SATB chorus a cappella, uses lush harmonies and smooth melodic lines to bring Emerson’s words to life.

2. O Vos Omnes – Matthew Lyon Hazzard

Program Notes from the composer: O Vos Omnes waxes and wains in this sensitive setting for mixed choir that captures a deep and troubling sorrow. Premiered by the Methodist University Chorale, March 2017 in Fayetteville, NC.

3. ¡Ayúdame! (Venezuelan Plea for Life)

Program notes from composer: When was the last time you were hungry and could not immediately eat? or thirsty and could not find water for hours? This is heartbreaking: to see my country, my family, suffering. I come from Venezuela and I did go through difficult times. Since I could not do much from where I was to help, I decided to fight my pain. I asked myself all the questions and cried while working on my desk, so comfortable yet feeling so guilty and helpless. When was the last time you were sick and could not find the medicine to feel better or even to keep living?

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