for SATB unaccompanied 'Traditionally sung on Christmas Eve, 'O Virgo virginum' is often described as the eighth 'O' Antiphon and praises Mary, 'O virgin of (amongst) virgins.' McDowall's setting is vigorous and joyful, with intimations of medieval plainchant. O Virgo virginum is the final movement of McDowall's set of three 'O' text settings conceived as Trinity Triptych.

for SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied Characteristically sung on Christmas Day, this Catholic chant depicts mystery and wonder at the birth of Jesus, as witnessed by the animals. The second half of the text relates to words spoken by Elizabeth, welcoming Mary into her home. In McDowall's setting, deep, sonorous chords open and close the piece, which has a sustained tempo that gives space for the melismatic vocal lines and rich harmonies to take full effect. O magnum mysterium is the first of McDowall's set of three 'O' text settings conceived as Trinity Triptych.

for SSATB unaccompanied The O nata lux text is taken from a 10th-century anonymous hymn that uses the concept of light to symbolise hope, a particularly pertinent theme for Advent. Throughout this setting the sopranos intertwine their high, melodic lines above interjections from the lower voices, creating an atmosphere of ethereal luminosity. O nata lux is the second of McDowall's set of three 'O' text settings conceived as Trinity Triptych.

for SATB and organ Light Triumphant Breaks combines the text of the Sarum introit from the second Sunday of Advent and a translated anonymous Greek text using dancing dotted rhythms and intricate articulation. A free use of metre and contrapuntal movement make this a lively and jubilant piece that would be enjoyed by church and cathedral choirs alike.

This book contains nine pieces from ABRSM's Grade 8 Piano syllabus for 2021 & 2022, three pieces chosen from each of Lists A, B and C. The pieces have been carefully selected to offer an attractive and varied range of styles, creating a collection that provides an excellent source of repertoire to suit every performer. The book also contains helpful footnotes and, for those preparing for exams, useful syllabus information. The enclosed CD features inspiring recordings of all 30 pieces on the Grade 8 syllabus, performed by Yulia Chaplina, Mei Yi Foo, Dinara Klinton, Charles Owen, Robert Thompson and Richard Uttley.

for TTBarBB unaccompanied Skilfully set to tender words by the poet e e cummings, 'I carry your heart', this piece was commissioned by the acclaimed close-harmony group, The King's Men, and was recorded on their album Love from King's. Also available for SSATBB.

Fiddle Time Joggers is a landmark book in the popular Fiddle Time series, which is enjoyed by students and teachers all over the world. It contains Kathy and David Blackwell's trademark attractive and engaging compositions that appeal to learners of all ages. Lively original pieces, traditional tunes, and easy duets take the learner from open strings to all fingers down in finger pattern 0-1-23-4. Appealing and exciting play-along and accompaniment tracks, with live band, string quartet, and fun sound effects, are available on major streaming platforms or to download from a companion website. Stylish piano and violin accompaniments are also available in separate books.

for SSA and piano, with optional melody instrument With lyrics by the composer, Come Alive explores the scientific notion that energy never dies, but instead transforms into or transfers to something new. The text calls us to renew our connection to nature in order to reawaken our senses and reconnect with a lost loved one. This energetic piece features an appealing combination of textures, from unison melody to four-part counterpoint (with a solo/small-group line), and builds to a full, emphatic climax at the close. The optional instrumental part may be played by any suitable melody instrument in C, including glockenspiel, xylophone, flute, and violin.

for solo organ Celebration is an exciting work for solo organ. Exuberant rhythms prevail in the outer sections (including a playful reference to Walton's Crown Imperial), framing more pensive music at the centre of the piece.

for SSATB unaccompanied. This atmospheric setting of the celebrated poem 'April Rain Song' by (the Harlem Renaissance writer) Langston Hughes captures the sense of comfort and security while listening to rainfall. The ebb and flow, careful phrasing, and rich harmony make this an ideal ensemble piece.

for upper voices (SSAA) and SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied This is an innovative, striking setting of the Magnificat text that is well suited to both liturgical and concert performance. The work celebrates the strength, character, and intelligence of teenage girls, as well as offering a different presentation of Mary, focusing on her courage and determination. The upper-voice choir is asked to sing in the style of Bulgarian choral folk music, using a visceral sound that contrasts with the mixed-voice choir. Olson's setting is an exquisite study in sound and texture, with a distinctive soundworld and a positive message.

for SSAA and piano Our Roots is an upbeat setting of evocative words by Delphine Chalmers on the themes of unity and commonality. An effective syncopated, single-note motif in the piano underpins the piece, rooting the tonality and providing a firm ostinato around which the music blossoms. Chilcott's word-painting - in places such as the drawing together of the four-part choral texture into unison on the words 'yours and mine the same' and the use of the piano's upper and lower registers as the text looks to roots and sky - creates a great sense of unity between music and lyrics. Powerful key changes and a strong rhythmic drive create an affirmatory setting that is sure to uplift both singer and listener.

for SATB chorus and organ, or orchestra This uplifting and highly effective arrangement of the popular Stanford hymn-tune ENGLEBERG, to words by Fred Pratt Green, was commissioned by the Broadway Baptist Church (Fort Worth) in Texas, and later recorded for broadcast by The Tabernacle Choir. The piece is suitable for regular worship services but most often at special praise services, choral liturgies, and musical feasts, and for recognizing the work of church musicians.

for SSA and piano This is a vibrant setting of a poem by George Parsons Lathrop that describes how music underpins all earthly life. An active piano part provides an energetic undercurrent to compelling vocal lines, with the voices beginning in unison before opening out into two and then three parts. Music of Life is the perfect selection for choirs looking to celebrate the life-affirming power of music. Also available in a version for SABar and piano.

for SATB unaccompanied Setting inspiring words by James Weldon Johnson, this work is both poignant and stirring, encouraging singers and listeners to reflect on the challenges of present times and to move forward with courage and strength towards a brighter future. The choral writing beautifully reflects the powerful text, leading us towards a climactic reminder that 'Tho' thick the battle and tho' fierce the fight, There is power in making for the right'. My heart be brave is an ideal choice for choirs looking to address issues of social justice in their programming. Also available in a version for TTBB unaccompanied.

for SATB and organ This energetic setting of words by St Ambrose of Milan is a real showstopper. With pop-influences and a sparkling organ part, Young effortlessly fuses modern and traditional sound worlds, while changes in key and metre build up to an invigorating finish. Perfect for accomplished choirs looking for something different.

SA and piano The Compass uses evocative imagery and metaphor to describe how feelings of being lost and adrift can be assuaged by journeying towards self-acceptance and positive change. A characterful four-note motif punctuates the piano part, which provides a steady rhythmic cushion for the stylistically syncopated and catchy melodic lines. This soul-searching piece is brought to a close by an empowering final chorus that celebrates moving forwards on a different path away from difficult times towards somewhere hopeful and new.

for SATB (with divisions) unaccompanied One of McGlade's longer settings, As the hart begins simply, before expanding into a more complex central section with fluctuating time signatures and shifting tonalities. Ideal for advanced mixed-voice choirs in a sacred or concert setting, it is a fitting alternative to Herbert Howells's famous setting of Psalm 42.

for SATB (with divisions) and small orchestra This is a beautiful, sensitive arrangement of the African-American spiritual and folk hymn Oh, watch the stars. The text reflects on the beauty of creation, and alternative verses by David Warner celebrating Christ's birth have been included for performance during the Christmas season. Wilberg artfully retains the understated feel and simplicity of the original spiritual while demonstrating hallmarks of his unique style, such as rich harmonies, contrasting keys and textures, and effective obbligato instrumental fills.

for SSATB unaccompanied In this sensitive choral arrangement of 'Nimrod' from Elgar's Enigma Variations, Michael Higgins sets the Eucharistic hymn 'O salutaris Hostia', written by St Thomas Aquinas for the Feast of Corpus Christi. The familiar melody passes seamlessly between the voice parts, and Elgar's lush, rich soundworld is perfectly emulated by the choral textures Higgins has fashioned.

for TTBB unaccompanied. TaReKiTa is a refreshing concert piece that effortlessly fuses the Hindustani (North Indian) and Western classical music styles. The composer's scats are combined with a fast triple metre, vocal slides, and captivating melodies built on the Jog raga. A pronunciation guide is included in the leaflet, and a video guide by the composer is available through a companion website. A version for unaccompanied mixed voices and SSAA unacompanied voices is also available.

for TTBB and piano This setting of a song from Act II of Shakespeare's As You Like It was originally published as part of Rutter's cycle When Icicles Hang. Here, it has been specially adapted for TTBB choir by the composer, allowing tenors and basses to enjoy this artful, atmospheric setting of a famous Shakesperean extract.