The Unarmed Child
The Unarmed Child by composer Michael Bussewitz-Quarm is a gorgeous, riveting, deeply moving and important work that is thoroughly accessible at the very first listening. Composed in response to gun violence against children, the work sensitively navigates this difficult, heart-wrenching subject with beautiful, poignant, healing words and music. Each movement deals with a different aspect of emotion in a uniquely expressive way. One cannot get through the experience without tears. But the vibrant final movement releases the audience and performers with an energized call to action that is infused with hope. - Dr. Diane Retallack, Artistic Director, Eugene Concert Choir.
The Radium Girl
Based on the tragic story of the "Radium Girls" - young women who were exposed to radium as part of their work in clock factories who eventually died from the exposure. This piece is intended to shine a light on these women and other people working in tragic conditions through the power of song. Unique overtone singing and interesting musical textures express the text in a creative way.
Would You Know Me By My Work? (Where We Find Ourselves)
This third movement from Where We Find Ourselves features inspirational lyrics about hard work in an anthem about what we are leaving for our children.
I am a Voice that Sings
From award-winning composer Michael Bussewitz-Quarm and acclaimed lyricist Ronald W. Cadmus comes an uplifting message of hope and friendship through times of darkness. Multiple musical settings provide a quick learn for choirs of all levels while allowing your singers opportunities for solos. “Together, we will find something of grace and peace. I am a voice that sings! Together we will sing!”
Nigra Sum
Composed as a tribute to the victims of the global refugee crisis, this piece utilizes modern a cappella harmonies, cluster chords and chant-like melodies to create a gorgeous setting of the Latin text from the Song of Solomon. Extended divisi, particularly in the tenor part, creates tight harmonies that sparkle against the open chord structure established throughout.
For the Beauty of the Earth
This universally known hymn text sets an atmosphere of simple beauty, which is echoed through the musical lines of this serene setting. Just like the ebb and flow in nature, the lyrics breathe through the phrasing and layering of voices. Available in a variety of voicings, this accessible work is easily learned by choirs of all ages.
My Name is Lamiya: Don't Call Me "Refugee"
This composition was written to bring attention to one of the most significant and challenging issues in our world today, the global refugee crisis. Nine-year-old Lamiya Safarova lost her home and her village, and she began writing poems to express her feelings. The stirring text and repeated rhythmic elements persist throughout this work, along with body percussion that represents the journey of the refugee, forced away from their home, most often by foot.