As I was going through this hymn again, preparing to arrange it, I was deeply moved by how rich the text is. I never noticed this before, though I've been singing it since I was a child. I think I got used to it before I had a chance to recognize how powerful it really is. I guess that's one of the dangers of being exposed to profound things at an early age (not that I would wish away my familiarity with it either). more »

Though the text of this Hymn is not specific to the Easter season, I really like to program it at that time. Really, it is appropriate for any service of the year; it would even work beautifully for Christmas. This arrangement is an expanded version of t… more »

He Shall Feed His Flock is one of the lovely solos from Handel’s Messiah that is appropriate for Christmas, Easter or any sacred concert or service focusing on the Savior.There are two options given of the solo in the original oratorio, this arrangement is based on the one that starts off with an Alto soloist and then, in the second half, a Soprano soloist takes over. I’ve arranged it here for an SATB acappella quartet (though there is no reason a larger choir couldn’t use it):The arrangement still features the soprano and alto solos (or sections if you desire). I hope you enjoy it. more »

I found this delightful carol text when I was working on my children’s Christmas songbook, “O Sing a Song of Bethlehem,” back in 2004. In this version, the voices imitate the sound of the bells, a la “Ring Christmas Bells" (aka “Carol of the Bells"), while the bass sings the words of the tune. This has a completely different feel, but you get the idea. I love the text; it is somewhat ambiguous and leaves me wondering if it is talking about Old Father Christmas or the Christ Child . . . it could go either way. more »

This version of The March of the Three Kings is sung acappella in an ABA form. This could be sung by a seasoned group of carolers or an acappella choir (who would shun the thought of singing all three verses the same each time). It is offered in e and g minor, both keys in one file. more »

This version of Unto us a Child is Born! is performed ABA. The middle B section is more difficult and will require some experienced singers. This is based on an old chant-like tune, Puer Nobis Nascitur, from a collection published in 1582 called Piae Cantiones (from which we find find carols like In Dulci Jubilo). I have played with the rhythms, the words and the harmonization. more »