Music for Choir 2023-24 - Excelcia Music Publishing

Welcome Choral Directors

Clickable Link Guide

Cover Image - ScoreVideo of the piece

Composition Title - More information about the piece

Composer Name - Composer Insight video

Flip through the pages and hover over each piece with your mouse to click on links. Listen (and watch) the scores and recordings of each new piece by clicking on its cover image. Click the composition title for more details about the piece or click the composer’s name to view the Composer Insight video. Click the “Fullscreen” button in the lower right corner for the best viewing experience.

Excelcia Select Dealers

Excelcia Choral Select Dealers

Composers of New Choral Music

Excelcia Music Publishing gives you unprecedented access to Composers.

As a composer-led publishing company, we provide composers with unparalleled support and respect. Connect directly with composers • Get rehearsal and performance advice • Plan a remote rehearsal • Set up a clinic Our composers want to hear from you.

Open to all composers. excelciamusic.com/excelcia-music-submission

Submissions by members of underrepresented groups are encouraged.

Connor Warren Smith

Kim Noller

Steve Parsons

Marshall Webb

Bruce W. Tippette

Lawrence Laureano

Patti Drennan

Lisa Benincasa

Derric Johnson

Tripp Carter

Greg Gilpin

Karen Crane

Mary Lynn Lightfoot

David Bobrowitz

Russell Robinson

Pinkzebra

Programming Guide

Inspirational

Songs of hope, inspiration, rebuilding, self-love

I Have A Dream

Words and Music by Kim Noller

A New Song of Love

Words by Bert Stratton, Arranged by Patti Drennan

If I Climb a Mountain

Words and Music by John Florio

Imagine the Dream

Words by Rose Aspinall, Music by Patti Drennan

It’s All Right Here

Words and Music by David Bobrowitz

My Sunshine

Words and Music by Kim Noller

UTP2203E

TTBB2303A

UTP2301E

SATB2302A

SAB2302E

UTP2303E

Folk Songs/Spirituals

Beloved spirituals and folk songs with new fresh takes

Gospel Train

African American Spiritual, Arranged by Tripp Carter

The Last Rose of Summer

Traditional Irish Melody, Words by Thomas Moore, Arranged by Connor Warren Smith

Every Time I Feel the Spirit

African American Spiritual, Arranged by Derric Johnson

Railroad Medley

TBB2302A

SATB2314A

Contest / Festival

Can Cala Me

Traditional Cornish Song, Arranged by Steve Parsons

Gloria from Harmoniemesse

SATB2301A

SAB2301A

Words and Music by Franz Joseph Haydn, Arranged by Russell Robinson

I Saw a Star SATB2304E

Words based on a poem by Sara Teasdale

Music by Lisa Benincasa

No Breath of Wind

SATB2312A

Words by Walter De La Mare, Alt., Music by Mary Lynn Lightfoot

Il Est Bel Et Bon

SAB2303A

Words and Music by Pierre Passereau, Arranged by Russell Robinson

Mama Dunia SSA2301A

Words and Music by Karen Crane

Pax (Peace)

Words and Music by Marshall Webb

Sing to the Lord a New Song

Words and Music by Lawrence Laureano

Still We Dance

Words by Karen Crane, Music by Greg Gilpin

Waiting for the Light of Morning

Words and Music by Steve Parsons

Holiday

Words and Music by Joseph Bracket, Jr., Arranged by Derric Johnson

Songs of the Spirit

Traditional Spirituals, Arranged by Derric Johnson

Old MacDonald Had a Farm

Traditional Nursery Rhyme, Arranged by Derric Johnson

Vocal Jazz

DJS2301

DJS2303

DJS2305

DJS2302

Classic & contemporary works with jazz harmonies

Keep On the Sunny Side

Words by Ada Blenkorn Music by J. Howard Entwisele, Arranged by John Maclane Schirard

Rainy Day Blues

Words and Music by Karen Crane

Red, White and Blue

David T. Shaw, John Philip Sousa, George M. Cohan

Arranged by Derric Johnson

Someone to Watch Over Me

Words and Music by George Gershwin & Ira Gershwin, Arranged by Bruce W. Tippette

What’ll I Do?

SATB2311A

TPM2301E

DJS2304

SSA2304A

SATB2310A

Words and Music by Irving Berlin, Arranged by John Maclane Schirard

A Winter Holiday

Words and Music by Lisa Benincasa

Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabella

Traditional French Carol, Arranged by Marshall Webb

I Saw Three Ships

Traditional, Arranged by Marshall Webb

Noel Upon the Midnight Clear

Traditional English Melody, Words by Edmund Hamilton Sears, Arranged by Steve Parsons

O Tannenbaum

Traditional, Arranged by Lisa Benincasa

See Amid the Winter’s Snow

Words by Edward Caswell, Music by John Goss, Arranged by Steve Parsons

What Child Is This?

Traditional, Music by Tripp Carter

Fum, Fum, Fum

Traditional Spanish Carol, Music by Derric Johnson

Gesu Bambino

Words by Frederick H. Martens, Music by Pietro Yon, Arranged by Derric Johnson

It Came Upon the Midnight Clear

Music by Edmund Sears, Words by Richard Storrs Willis, Arranged by Derric Johnson

Jingle Bells

SATB2308A

SATB2313A

UTP2304E

TBB2301A

SATB2305E

SSA2303A

SATB2307A

SSAA2302A

UTP2302E

SATB2303A

SATB2306A

DJS2306

DJS2307

DJS2309

DJS2310

Words and Music by James Lord Pierpont, Arranged by Derric Johnson

The First Noel

Traditional English Carol, Arranged by Derric Johnson

DJS2308

If I Climb a Mountain

Words and Music by John Florio

This beautiful song with an emotional lyrics about lifelong friendships and dedication to each other is well crafted for 2-part voices. The memorable melody, lovely harmonies, and intuitive counter-lines are all easy to learn and sing. A delicate and flowing piano part provides the perfect combination of background and vocal support throughout. The lyrics provide an inspiring call to action & mountain-moving commitment that is perfect for students of all ages to sing. (2:39)

O Tannenbaum

Traditional

Arranged by Lisa Benincasa

This unison arrangement is a must for treble choirs. The A section with a traditional accompaniment is sung in German, with optional English text. The B section modulates up a fourth, adds non-traditional chords, and is sung in English. (1:38)

Three-Part Mixed Voices

Rainy Day Blues

Words and Music by Karen Crane

My Sunshine

Words and Music by Kim Noller

This sweet, upbeat song celebrates the important people in our lives. My Sunshine is an original 2-part treble piece (with optional descant) that features a fresh take on nostalgic childhood classics. This affirming song of thanks and praise will delight performers and audiences alike while recognizing the special and vital roles teachers, parents, grandparents, mentors, and friends have played in our development and growth. (2:28)

Still We Dance

Words by Karen Crane

Music by Greg Gilpin

Life is a dance of up and down, give and take, round and round. This fun, accessible, two-part piece celebrates all that life brings, no matter good or bad. We can always join in the dance! With a lilting rhythm and memorable melody, your choir will be singing this long after the concert is over. (2:15)

This fun piece for Three-part Mixed Voices will have your choir wishing for a rainy day. With a catchy tune and upbeat lyrics, students will learn this piece in no time. It’s a great confidence booster for beginning choirs, and an all-around enjoyable piece for any choir. Your choirs will love singing it. (2:21)

It’s All Right Here

Words and Music by David Bobrowitz

Sometimes we are all so busy that we forget to look at the beauty that is all around us. It’s All Right Here is an uplifting song that reminds us that nature’s beauty is truly like a magic show to be enjoyed by all and is wonderful for a fall or spring concert. (2:45)

Gloria from Harmoniemesse

Words and Music by Franz Joseph Haydn

Arranged by Russell Robinson

Written for the premiere at Dr. Robinson’s 2023

Carnegie Hall concert, the recognizable Gloria from Franz Joseph Haydn’s Harmoniemesse has been carefully arranged for SAB voices. There are many places for voice parts to be highlighted, and has an accessible piano part that does not veer from the original orchestral score. (2:56)

Il Est Bel et Bon

Words and Music by Pierre Passereau

Arranged by Russell Robinson

This Renaissance “fun” piece by Pierre Passereau has always been a choral and audience highlight. Russell Robinson has now made it accessible for SAB voices. The French text is easy, and singers and audiences will “get” the fun meaning of this piece. It has an optional piano accompaniment in the style of a lute to keep with the style and assist and complement the voices. (1:55)

A Winter Holiday

Words and Music by Lisa Benincasa

This upbeat piece with a driving 5/4 rhythm is all about winter fun on the slopes. The mixed meter, easy harmonies, and moving line create a sense of adventure! Audiences will love it as you take them on a ride through the snow! (1:42) SATB2305E

Can Cala Me

Traditional Cornish Song

Arranged by Steve Parsons

This spirited SATB a cappella setting of a traditional English May Day song bursts with energy, but also features a contrasting legato middle section with a story-like text. Careful voice leading makes this a perfect choice for concert, festival or contest performance! (1:55)

SATB2301A

I Saw a Star

Words based on a poem by Sara Teasdale

Words by Lisa Benincasa

I Saw a Star is a joyful piece based on the poem Falling Star by Sara Teasdale, and incorporates a childhood rhyme, Star Light, Star Bright. The lyrics embrace the wonders of the universe! The voicing is perfect for an advanced middle school or beginning high school SATB group, and the piano accompaniment adds a beautiful sparkle to this fun piece. (2:22)

Imagine the Dream

Words by Rose Aspinall

Music by Patti Drennan

Penned with lyrics by Rose Aspinall and music by Patti Drennan, this lush new anthem for SATB voices was written as an encouragement for us all to reach for the stars and stretch ourselves to achieve our biggest goals in life. From the lyrical melodic opening line to the vibrant, pulsating “B” section, and strong reprise, this song is perfect for middle school through community choirs and appropriate for festival, graduation or general concerts. (3:45)

SATB2302A

See Amid the Winter’s Snow

Words by Edward Caswell

Music by John Goss

Arranged by Steve Parsons

Beginning with subtle textures reminiscent of glistening winter snow and building to a triumphant declaration, this SATB arrangement of the glorious traditional UK carol is full of uplift and wonder. An emotion-packed addition to any winter or holiday concert! (4:12)

I Saw Three Ships

Traditional

Arranged by Marshall Webb

This arrangement of the traditional English carol from 1833, is best described as variations on the tune. There is a verse for SSAA, as well as a verse for TTBB. Blending traditional harmonies with some more contemporary chord substitutions, this is just fun to sing! (2:02) SATB2307A

Gentle Lena Clare

Words and Music by Stephen C. Foster

Arranged by Russell Robinson

This beautiful melody and lyrics by Stephen C. Foster has been made into a lush SATB a cappella arrangement by Russell Robinson. The voice leadings make it accessible to all choirs and includes opportunities for solos and duets. (3:27)

SATB2309A

Keep On the Sunny Side

Words by Ada Blenkorn

Music by J. Howard Entwisele

Arranged by John Maclane Schirard

This jazzy re-imagining of a classic Americana tune is guaranteed to bring some extra light into your concert with its cheerful, optimistic message. Rich ballad sections are contrasted by an up-tempo swing refrain, complete with a walking bass line. With exciting harmonies and easy to sing vocal lines, this song is a great introduction to tight harmonies with a wonderful payoff! (2:44)

Sing to the Lord a New Song

Words and Music by Lawrence Laureano

This piece is a joyful exclamation of praise followed by a beautiful and calm TTBB section which leads to a poignant a cappella “Alleluia” section. This song finishes joyfully with sonorous chords in both the piano and the vocal parts and is a wonderful addition to any concert. (2:31) SATB2313A

What Child Is This?

Traditional Music by Tripp Carter

Don’t miss this unique a cappella arrangement of a classic holiday tune! Your singers will surely love these sweeping lines and soaring legato phrases. With a beautiful introduction, this piece is filled with lots of nice chords and interesting surprises. Varying musical textures also make plenty of room for dynamic contrast throughout. Audiences will absolutely enjoy this stunning selection! (3:00)

SATB2306A

Pax (Peace)

Words and Music by Marshall Webb

This secular Latin piece brings with it a most timely message. In a nutshell, this original poem poses the question, “Where is peace?” The answer is it comes from inside. Become the peace. It begins with each of us. An original contemporary choral setting, this is a perfect vehicle for showcasing a group with attention to tuning and balance. (3:04)

What’ll I Do?

Words and Music by Irving Berlin

Arranged by John Maclane Schirard

This sensitive arrangement of the classic Irving Berlin song is full of lush jazz-inspired harmonies, contrasted with moments of stunning simplicity. Singers and audiences alike will find new depths of emotion and heart in this fresh rendition. (3:15)

SATB2310A

No Breath of Wind

Words by Walter De La Mare, Alt.

Music by Mary Lynn Lightfoot

Engage your singers in the beautiful winter imagery of this captivating Walter de la Mare text. Lightfoot’s memorable melodies are paired with an equally expressive and supportive accompaniment. Seamlessly moving from major to minor, incorporating key and tempo changes, and culminating in an ending of quiet unison, this stunning original is a superb choice for your winter, seasonal or holiday concert. (3:25)

SATB2312A

The Last Rose of Summer

Traditional Irish Melody

Words by Thomas Moore

Arranged by Connor Warren Smith

This traditional Irish poem is brought to new life in a gorgeous and lush arrangement by Connor Warren Smith. Smith’s signature contemporary harmony and voicing is blended into a traditional chamber sound for a setting that feels both modern and classic, appealing to a variety of musical palettes. Beautiful arching phrases, chord colors, and tastefully accessible divisi will make this piece a strong addition to your festival or concert repertoire. (3:27)

SATB2314A

$2.75

Mama Dunia (Mother Earth)

Words and Music by Karen Crane

With a text that includes both Swahili and English, this energetic a cappella SSA piece celebrates our Mother Earth. The shaker and hand drum make a perfect rhythmic accompaniment. The descant part for a few voices (or a solo) provides more opportunities for singers to shine. Your students will love to sway with the beat while performing this piece. (3:05) SSA2301A

Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella

Traditional French Carol

Arranged by Marshall Webb

While keeping the original 3/4 time, Marshall has set this traditional French carol in English for SSAA, but reworked it with a cool jazz waltz feel. It is a great opportunity for either a 5 voice group or treble choir to show off their skills in a piece which will sound more challenging than it is. (3:44)

SSAA2303A

Tenor-Bass Choirs

Waiting For the Light of Morning

Words and Music by Steve Parsons

An exciting Celtic-inspired a cappella original for TBB voices that encourages hope and unity. The optional Irish Bodhrán part enhances the driving energy and sense of determination, while conservative ranges help make this appropriate for most low voice ensembles. (2:29)

TBB2301A

A New Song of Love

Words by Bert Stratton

Arranged by Patti Drennan

Noel: Upon the Midnight Clear

Traditional English Melody

Words by Edmund Hamilton Sears

Arranged by Steve Parsons

A sparkling setting of the traditional text, but with the alternate tune predominantly used in the British Isles, this beautiful SSA arrangement highlights the image of soaring angels “bending near the earth” to bring their wondrous Christmas message. (3:28)

Someone to Watch Over Me

Words & Music by George Gershwin & Ira Gershwin

Arranged by Bruce W. Tippette

George and Ira Gershwin’s famous tune Someone to Watch Over Me has been given a new voice in this arrangement for treble voices. Originally written for the musical “Oh, Kay” as an up-tempo vocal solo, this arrangement keeps the slow, balladlike style that has been adopted as the preferred way to perform the piece. While the melody has remained untouched, for the most part, the piano accompaniment and vocal harmonies are completely new, but play homage to the overall aura that was originally captured almost 100 years ago.(2:51)

Gospel Train

African American Spiritual

Arranged by Tripp Carter

In this exciting new arrangement of a well-known spiritual, an upbeat accompaniment supports fun and accessible tenor/bass harmonies. With a refreshing rhythmic section in 6/4 time, your singers will love recreating the feeling of an approaching train! This arrangement builds up through its accelerando section, leading to an exciting ending that your audience will surely remember long after the concert is over. (1:54)

TBB2302A

In a world where it seems that kindness and respect for others is often not the norm, we need to be reminded of the importance of love and basic humanity. This TTBB anthem with lyrics by Bert Stratton and music by Patti Drennan stresses the importance of how we can change the world with love by living side by side in harmony, no matter our differences. Perfect for schools and community choirs alike, this anthem will be an encouragement to others. (2:55)

Every Time I Feel the Spirit African American Spiritual

Derric Johnson

If you are looking for that “curtain up” moment for your concert, this is the piece! A very stirring opener for your program, this is a great attention getter. The song is accessible to all levels of SATB choirs and will be fun to sing! (1:56) DJS2301

Old MacDonald Had a Farm

Traditional Nursery Rhyme

Derric Johnson

This is another great song for the middle of your program when you need to get the audience smiling... if not laughing out loud. This is a way to get your students engaged in the song and come up with lots of options for fun performance and even staging moments for your show. (3:05)

Railroad Medley

American Folk Songs

Derric Johnson

This arrangement is the perfect exciting middle song that will engage your singers in a number of styles and tempos with an exciting finish. Beginning with a railroad steam engine starting out, and the happy sound of the whistle, it ends with the train arriving in the station. There’s a fun section where your singers will “sing the banjo” and an opportunity for a soulful solo section, this is not to be missed! (3:48) DJS2303

Red, White and Blue

David T. Shaw, John Philip Sousa, George M. Cohan

Derric Johnson

Another wonderful opener for your show. This is a straightforward martial feeling. Not many times do your singers get to SING Stars and Stripes

Forever (including the piccolo part!)... so live it up. Enjoy these chords and driving rhythms to get your audience excited for the rest of the concert. (2:33) DJS2304

Songs of the Spirit

Traditional Spirituals

Derric Johnson

This arrangement is a combination of 7 well-known Spirituals wrapped around IN THAT GREAT GETTIN’ UP MORNING. The styles meander through the moods of great happiness and joy to deep personal introspection. There really is something for everybody here. Nobody said life would be easy... just worth it. Same as this medley. There would be no better closer to your concert than this exciting medley! (5:34)

Traditional Spanish Carol

This is the perfect song to get your audience and your singers excited! While the tempo on this is driving, it’s the building of the choral parts in each verse that creates excitement for a big finish. The perfect song for your holiday concert! (1:34)

DJS2306

Frederick H. Martens

Derric Johnson

One of the sweetest Christmas Carols ever written and it should be sung as a lullaby. The beautiful solo helps sing the baby to sleep as the choir creates a beautiful atmosphere of beauty and sleep. Make sure not to wake the baby. (2:43)

Traditional English Carol

A thoughtful vocal expression of farewell. These Irish lyrics have comforted millions of hearts through the years. This setting creates a beautiful and thoughtful bed for them; very tender. (3:12) DJS2308

It Came Upon the Midnight Clear

Edmund Sears

Richard Storrs Willis

Derric Johnson

This may be the most beautiful version of this classic carol. Your singers and audience alike will love this song. The key word for this arrangement is SMOOTH. There will be opportunities to discuss text painting and voice crossing to create this stunning moment for any holiday concert. (3:32)

DJS2309

James Lord Pierpont

Derric Johnson

This is probably one of the most well-known Christmas carols out there, but here is a completely new take on the classic! Your singers will love every second of this fast-paced song of the season. Once your singers learn this, they won’t stop singing it. This is the perfect up-tempo middle song for any holiday concert. The perfect song to have fun! (1:28)

Pinkzebra

Pinkzebra is a top-selling choral music composer. His upbeat and positive songs, inspiring graduation songs, and beautiful winter songs have become favorites of high school and middle school choirs around the world. Excelcia Music Publishing is now the exclusive distributor for the choral music of Pinkzebra!

New Music Releases

A New Day

Words & Music by Pinkzebra

An inspiring song about handling disappointment or adversity and finding optimism in the hope that comes with a new day.

SATB | SAB | SSA | Two-Part

Climb Higher

Words & Music by Pinkzebra

A powerful and upbeat motivational anthem about trying your best to succeed. Perfect for graduation ceremonies and general concerts.

SATB | SAB | SSA | Two-Part

When the Light of Morning Breaks

Words & Music by Pinkzebra

December in My Hometown

Words & Music by Pinkzebra

This heartfelt winter song is a tribute to everyone’s hometown during the special month of December. Relatable for choirs in both warm or cold climates, this song is about the festive decorations and good vibes that come around each year.

SATB | SAB | SSA | Two-Part

The First Noel

Arranged by Pinkzebra

A fresh take on the classic Christmas carol featuring unexpected but intuitive phrasing with contemporary harmonies and chord progressions. The arrangement begins softly and builds to an exaltant final chorus.

SATB | SAB | SSA | Two-Part

“Here I am!” is the empowering call at the climax of this thoughtful and inspiring song about the peaceful moments when you begin to wake up and gather your thoughts in the quiet light of your bedroom before rising to meet the day. Perfect for general concerts and graduation ceremonies. Available in multiple versions including a cappella, with piano accompaniment, and with additional string quartet parts.

SATB A Cappella | SATB | SAB | SSA | Two-Part

All Time Favorites

Find

Excelcia Music Publishing proudly distributes the music of Voctave.

The Star Spangled Banner

John Stafford Smith and Francis Scott Key

Arranged by Jamey Ray

A stirring rendition of our National Anthem. This arrangement is from the immensely popular vocal group Voctave is sure to be a hit at your next concert. Jamey Ray knows how to make a choir sound great! (2:06)

Joy to the World with For Unto Us A Child Is Born

George Frideric Handel

Arranged by Jamey Ray

This is an up-tempo medley of two of G. F. Handel’s most famous pieces, Joy to the World and For Unto Us A Child Is Born. Excelcia Music Publishing is proud to present this stunning Jamey Ray arrangement that is exactly as it is on the Voctave album Snow (1:30) VOC1901

Go Tell It on the Mountain

African-American Spirtual

Words by John Wesley Work, Jr.

Arranged by Jamey Ray

This arrangement from the immensely popular vocal group Voctave is sure to be a hit at your next concert. Jamey Ray knows how to make a choir sound great! (2:35)

O Come, All Ye Faithful

Arranged by Jamey Ray

From Voctave’s album ‘Snow’ featuring soloist E.J. Cardona comes a fresh new take on a classic Christmas song. A great feature for a high tenor and choir with unexpected key changes and lots of ups and downs, this is sure to be a winner this holiday season! (5:16)

All Is Well

Michael W. Smith and Wayne Kirkpatrick

Arranged by Jamey Ray

From Voctave’s album ‘The Spirit of the Season’ featuring soloist Tiffany Coburn, this Christmas favorite is sure to be a success this holiday season. Lush, beautiful, and great for large choirs, All is Well will be a big hit with musicians and audiences alike! (3:53)

Mary, Did You Know?

Music by Buddy Greene

Lyrics by Mark Lowry

Arranged by Jamey Ray

This SATB divisi piece with male solo was performed by Voctave on the album The Spirit of the Season, with special guest Mark Lowry, the composer of this beautiful Christmas song. This is an authentic Voctave arrangement by Jamey Ray with very wide ranges but will leave your audiences speechless. (1:41)

Viral sensation, Voctave is an 11-member a cappella group formed by producer and arranger Jamey Ray, with multiple #1 songs and albums.