Choral works for SATB voices
Sing We Now of Christmas is a delightful arrangement of an ancient Christmas Carol. It is uniquely scored for SATB voices as well as guitar, flute, and tambourine.
Maggie is an old American folk song about love lost (perhaps never truly found). It recounts the remembrance of an old man of his love, "Maggie." While the original verses (1,2) describe love that will never be or never be again, the arranger-supplied third verse declares the lovers as "forever young."
I. The Lord is My Refuge
II. A Thousand May Fall at Your Side
III. Because You Made the Lord Your Dwelling Place
This composition is based upon the beautiful Psalm 91 in the Old Testament. It is a three movement work for SATB voices and is scored for piano, and/or strings and woodwinds.* Born from personal adversity and the ensuing Covid pandemic, this song expresses the feeling of dependence one feels on God in times of trouble and insecurity. Encompassing the entire Psalm, this work is one of faith, promise, and optimism in times of difficulty.
*Orchestra parts and full score are available for purchase by messaging via “Contacts.”
Scored for piano, oboe, and cello
An original composition in remembrance of the my father, Cliff Roden. It recounts my childhood remembrance of yellow butterflies signifying the beginning of autumn as frequently announced by my dad. A beautiful melody and fresh lyric for anyone who has lost someone they love.
See the Cross is a gentle, contemplative piece adapted from a "Guided Meditation for Good Friday" by Rev. John Cannon. Originally performed as a part of the Maundy Thursday service at Asbury United Methodist Church in Lafayette, Louisiana, the recurring words: "see the cross" and "see the Christ" guide the singer/listener to a poignant reminder of the humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ.
“He is not distant; He is not separate; divinely dwells among His people. See the Christ”
This composition is based on Zephaniah 3:17 which tells us that God sings! A most inspiring passage; the idea for this piece came after hearing it read at the memorial service of one of the members of my choir. It is for SATB choir with piano accompaniment. With dynamics that range from quiet and calm to loud and exciting, it consists of both accompanied sections and a cappella sections. It enthusiastically affirms God's protection, gladness and his rejoicing over us as his children.
Who was Watching? is inspired by the “Shoes on the Danube Bank” in Budapest, Hungary, which memorializes the horrific events which occurred during the winter of 1944-1945. As relevant today as it was almost 80 years ago, it poses a question regarding freedom and human rights which we hold so dear.
“Watching but not seeing, allows cruelty to reign.”
Sing My Soul, His Wondrous Love
A fresh and somewhat embellished arrangement of this old hymn with a little of "Christ the Lord is Risen Today" sprinkled in for good measure. The harmonies and verses of the original hymn have been maintained with additional lyrics added by the composer. A joyous hymn arrangement with an appropriate piano accompaniment.
Names Etched in Stone is a new composition inspired by the graves of the "Greatest Generation" in and around Normandy, France. Especially inspiring were the graves which simply are designated, not with the soldiers' names, but the simple inscription "known unto God." Dedicated to the my great-uncle who lost his life after coming ashore in Normandy and is buried at the Brittany-American Cemetery in St. James, France, this composition holds a very special place in my heart.
I Need Thee Every Hour is a fresh SATB arrangement of an old hymn classic with attainable harmonies and piano accompaniment.
America the Beautiful is a new arrangement for SATB choir of a beloved patriotic song. Beginning quietly with an a cappella setting, it builds to a powerfully majestic ending.
Alto/Baritone Duet
Who Am I? is a meaningful duet based on Psalm 8:4 for baritone and alto with piano accompaniment. This arrangement was written for my daughter and myself to sing together. The text explores the timeless question: "Who am I that you are mindful of me?"
