SATB Voices and Piano
Based on “The Gift to Sing” by James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938)
Music by Earlene Rentz
Gospel style
Moderate Difficulty
Free with Purchase: Accompaniment MP3, Individual Voice Parts MP3s, and Rehearsal Preparation Sheet
Also Available: Unison, 2-Part, SSA, 3-Part Mixed, TTBB, TB, TTB
Video for additional insight: https://youtu.be/71WL4layoxU
Duration ca. 3:16
The inspiring text on which this setting is based was written by James Weldon Johnson, the same lyricist of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” This piece is written in gospel style, and exudes joy, happiness, and encouragement. The lyricist celebrates the fact that in all of life’s dark moments, he lifts his voice in song, and somehow his spirits are lifted. The middle section is legato, “I brood not over the broken past, nor dread whatever time may bring.” There is hope for all of us, always. We sing for joy!
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