The Choral Music of Ruth Elaine Schram

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Spirituals / Hymns / Folk Songs

African Lullaby
View scoreView Two Part score page 8, page 9
The beautiful Ugandan lullaby "Mwana Wange" is accompanied by piano and optional percussion in this tender, timeless song of the nativity adapted and arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram. It paints a touching and gentle picture of the intimacy of Mary and the Christ child.  Appropriate for medium to small choirs, this piece can be used throughout the Advent and Christmas season, but is especially poignant in a Christmas Eve setting.  Available in two voicings (gentle percussion included in the score), suitable for church or school use.

Hal Leonard
08742783 - SATB
08742784 - Two Part

All My Trials
View scoreView Three Part Mixed score page 1
The familiar African-American Spiritual has been expressively arranged in multiple voicings by Ruth Elaine Schram. It starts out in A minor with open, parallel fifths in the piano part then moves into C-major when the voices come in, and the ending just fades away, again in A minor.  Suitable for school or church use.

BriLee
BL166 - Three Part Mixed
BL167 - Unison / Two Part

Alleluia What a Happy Day
View scoreView score page 1
Lively, energetic song in the style of a spiritual, with a joyful text by David Davenport. Scored for SATB; may be performed with piano accompaniment or a cappella.

Lorenz
10/2346LA - SATB

Amen!
View scoreView SATB score page 11
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
The delightful, popular Spiritual is available with an all-Christmas text, in a truly choral arrangement.  After the chorus is sung, the first verse begins "See the tiny baby lyin' in the manger on Christmas morning!" and continues with the shepherds running to greet him in the lowly stable, the kings and wise men kneeling down before him, and the angels singing "Amen, Hallelujah, Amen!"  Powerful and fun, yet not difficult to prepare.  Suitable for school or church use.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SVM01035 - SATB
SVM01036 - Three Part Mixed
SVM01037 - Two Part
SVM01035CD - Accompaniment CD

Be Still, My Soul
View scoreView score page 1, page 2, page 5, page 6
MP3 audioClick here to listen
This arrangement of the beloved hymn based on the immortal FINLANDIA theme by Sibelius is true to the spirit of the original while adding a freshness through the addition of an optional organ part to the piano accompaniment with optional flute. Thoughtfully arranged for the volunteer choir, this heartfelt choral expresses the comfort of God's promises.

Commissioned by the First United Methodist Church of Arab, Alabama, in honor of Eleanor Cobb and her many years of dedication and service, and based upon her favorite hymn.

Shawnee Press
A8695 - SATB, piano, opt. organ, opt. flute

Children, Go Where I Send Thee
View scoreView score page 1, page 6
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
Imaginative arrangement of the traditional favorite. This bright, crisp setting is very easy to sing yet sounds impressive when sung by even the youngest of choirs. Suitable for church or school use.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SVM04010 - SATB
SV98135 - Two Part

Come Thou Fount
View scoreView score page 4, page 5
MP3 audioClick here to listen
"Come Thou Fount" is one of the great songs of sacred literature. The soaring melody and expressive texts are powerfully set by Ruth Elaine Schram, capturing the strength and beauty of this exceptional work. Suitable for church or school use.

BriLee
BL337 - Unis / Two Part
BLCD00T6 - Accompaniment CD

Do Lord
View scoreView SATB score page 1, page 2, page 3
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
The upbeat swing style of this classic African American Spiritual arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram is ideal for any concert, and suitable for church or school use.   Optional Guitar, Bass, and Drum parts are included in the score.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SV9985 - SATB
SV9987 - Two Part
SV9985CD - Accompaniment CD

Down By the Riverside
View scoreView SATB score page 1
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
The wonderful African-American Spiritual has been given a powerful, upbeat treatment in this fresh arrangement by Ruth Elaine Schram. Available in multiple voicings, along with a compelling Accompaniment track. Will particularly appeal to youth choirs.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SVM02071 - SATB
SVM02072 - Three Part Mixed
SVM02073 - Two Part
SVM02071CD - Accompaniment CD

Dry Bones
View scoreView score page 3, page 8
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
The well-known spiritual has been arranged for voices of all ages, with the familiar ascending chromatic key changes in the first section and the descending modulations in the latter section.  Optional guitar, bass and drum parts are included in the score; suitable for church or school use.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SVM01022 - SATB
SVM01023 - Three Part Mixed
SVM01024 - Two Part

Every Night When the Sun Goes In
View scoreView SATB score page 1, page 2, page 3
MP3 audioListen to an excerpt
Beautiful, legato arrangement of the African American spiritual is suitable for school or church use, and appropriate for contests and festivals.  Only moderately difficult, available in three voicings.

BriLee
BL219 - SATB
BL220 - Three Part Mixed
BL221 - SSA

Every Time I Feel the Spirit
View scoreView Three Part Mixed score page 1
MP3 audioListen to the complete work
Inventive, rhythmic arrangement of the African-American spiritual. Both youth and adult choirs will enjoy this one! Suitable for church or school choirs. An accompaniment track is available; optional guitar, bass, and drum parts are included.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SV9791 - Three Part Mixed
SV9792 - Two Part

Glory Land Hallelu
MP3 audioClick here to listen
This energetic medley combines two traditional choruses, "Praise Ye the Lord, Hallelujah," and "Do Lord," sprinkled with references to Handel's "Hallelujah" Chorus! Lively choral call-and-response makes this the ideal piece for teaching choirs to part-sing, and its flexible voicing is great for both treble and mixed choirs of all ages. Speech chorus and stomps and claps add to the toe-tapping fun! Tim Hayden's delightfully orchestrated CD accompaniment track is available.

Alfred
00-24382 - Two Part any combination (Level Two)
00-24383 - InstruTrax CD

God Is Our Strength
View scoreView score page 3, page 4
MP3 audioClick here to listen
This versatile anthem may be performed either a cappella or with the optional accompaniment. Based on Psalm 46 and incorporating Martin Luther's "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," it underscores the strong and protective nature of God, making it a perfect choice for Reformation Sunday.

Lorenz
10/3345L - SATB (opt. a cappella)

God Will Make a Way
View scoreView score page 5, page 8
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Ideal for blended worship settings, the Don Moen praise and worship favorite "God Will Make a Way" is beautifully partnered with the hymn classic "He Leadeth Me" by Joseph Gilmore and William Bradbury. Supportive accompaniment and carefully crafted vocal parts make this an accessible anthem for choirs large or small.

Exaltation (Lorenz)
10/3480L - SATB

Hold On Noah!
View scoreView score page 1, page 2
Delightful new work by Mark Cabaniss and Ruth Elaine Schram is sure to please. "Better build a boat and step inside, this is gonna be a bumpy ride!" This foot-tapping new spiritual is pure fun, and tells the favorite story of Noah in a fresh new way. Add the optional rhythm section for a jubilant celebration of faith! Optional parts for guitar, bass, and drums included in the score.

Hal Leonard
08743338 - SATB
08743094 - Bonus Trax

How Can I Keep from Singing
View scoreView score page 2, page 3
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Superb voice leading characterizes this SSA setting of the Traditional Quaker Hymn. A perfect choice for use any time during the church year. Your ladies will sound warm and sensitive on this flowing setting.

BriLee
BL462 - SSA
BLCD0T14 - Accompaniment CD

Hush, Little Baby (Mockingbird)
View scoreView SATB score page 6, page 7
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB Christmas Lyric)
This inventive arrangement of the traditional folk song has an alternate text for Christmas.  "Hush, little baby, don't you cry, Mama's gonna sing you a lullaby.  In that lullaby she sings, you'll hear the brush of angels' wings ..."  With a gently rocking interlude to separate the verses and a few harmonic surprises, this is sweet and lovely all the way.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SVM04029 - SATB
SVM04030 - SAB
04031 - SSA
SVM04029CD - Accompaniment CD

In the Christmas Spirit
View scoreView SATB score page 4, page 5, page 6
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB sacred text)
Incorporating the spirituals "Mary Had a Baby," "The Angel Band," "I'm Gonna Sing," and "Go, Tell It On the Mountain," Ruth Elaine Schram has tied them together with original words and music for a fun, upbeat medley. This bright swing-style piece will be a unique change of pace for the holidays. Suitable for church or school use (with alternate text included), available in multiple voicings.

Warner Bros. / Alfred
SVM05015 - SATB
SVM05016 - Three Part Mixed
SVM05017 - Two Part
SVM05015CD - Accompaniment / Performance CD

It's All About the Cross
View scoreView score page 1, page 2, page 3
MP3 audioClick here to listen
A brief journey through scripture, outlining the unity of the Old and New Testament with respect to the plan of salvation, is beautifully enhanced with a distinctive melody that delicately paints the scene of Christ's love for us as demonstrated on Calvary. Weaving in themes from the beloved hymn, "When I Survey," the optional String Orchestra accompaniment adds a crowning touch to this moving work. For further flexibility for your music ministry, a string reduction is included with the string score.

Monarch (Lorenz)
10/3537M - SATB
30/2198M - String Orchestration
99/2046M - Performance / Accompaniment CD

Jesus, Lover of My Soul
View scoreView score page 1, page 7
MP3 audioClick here to listen
This smooth pairing of "Jesus, Lover of My Soul" and "Fairest Lord Jesus" is a gracious intertwining of beloved hymn tunes. The flowing vocal lines and fine keyboard part propel the listener toward a hauntingly beautiful ending. This inventive anthem will inspire the choir and congregation alike. Scored for SAB voices with a fourth part cued in the bass clef to easily adapt it for SATB choirs.

Carl Fischer
CM8744 - SA(T)B

Jesus, Precious Treasure (cover) Jesus, Precious Treasure
This vocal soloist collection is filled with heart-felt songs of devotion to Jesus and hymns that focus on His Name. The varied seasonal themes ensure that this resource will be used throughout the church year with songs suitable for Advent/Christmas, Lent, Stewardship Emphases, and general services. Versatile, it includes optional synthesizer parts to provide a sparkling performance option when used with the piano accompaniment. An accompaniment CD is also included for rehearsal or performance purposes, and it contains two bonus tracks: an orchestral accompaniment to "His Hands," and a string accompaniment to "Christmas Grace."

more info...

Joy to the Whole World
View scoreView SATB score page 1, page 2
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
Winning mixture of "Joy to the World" and "He's Got the Whole World In His Hands," suitable for church or school use. The song starts off in 4/4 with a bit of a swing, but for the third verse (He's got the tiny baby...) it slows to 3/4 and goes to even eighths, while the accompaniment plays portions of "Brahm's Lullaby" and "Rock-a-bye Baby." The tempo picks back up for the fourth verse and a strong ending. The accompaniment CD is orchestrated by Steve Herold.

Alfred
19135 - Three Part Mixed (Level Two)
19136 - Unison / Two Part (Level One)
19137 - Accompaniment CD

Kum Ba Yah (published by Alfred)
View scoreView SATB score page 6
MP3 audioClick here to listen (TBB)
Beginning with percussive sounds that imply this beloved spiritual's African roots, this creative arrangement sparkles. Optional guitar adds a special touch to this fun work.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
9779 - SATB
9782 - Two Part

Kum Ba Yah (published by BriLee)
View scoreView score page 4, page 5
MP3 audioClick here to listen (Unison / Two Part)
The beloved campfire song has been artfully arranged for Unison / Optional Two Part voices.  The familiar melody has been given beautiful fresh harmonies that a new generation will cherish.

BriLee
BL452 - Unison / Opt. Two Part
BLCD0T12 - Accompaniment CD

Kyrie (based upon Largo from The New World Symphony)
View scoreView Three Part Mixed score page 7
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
Traditional Latin text set to music based upon Movement II, "Largo," from Symphony No. 9, Opus 95, "From the New World" by Antonin Dvorak, arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram. This well-known melody is also known as the Spiritual "Goin' Home." Optional oboe or other C-instrument part is included.

Alfred
17977 - SATB (Level Three)
17978 - Three Part Mixed (Level Two)
17979 - Two Part / SSA (Level Two)

Little Innocent Lamb
View scoreView score page 4, page 5
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Both youth and adults will ask for this anthem! The traditional spiritual Little Lamb, Little Lamb, Little Innocent Lamb has been arranged for Unison and Two Part choirs. Easy to learn and to easy to teach, this offering is a great piece to introduce the traditional spiritual style, or just a treat for your singers! The text has been updated by the arranger to make it less confusing and more applicable to today's choirs.

Shawnee Press
E5525 - Two Part Treble
MD5545 - LiteTrax CD

The Lone, Wild Bird
View scoreView SATB score page 3, page 4
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
This traditional American folk hymn, while elegantly simple, has been given a fresh, stirring setting by Ruth Elaine Schram. An optional soaring flute obbligato is featured, while gorgeous vocal harmonies convey the image of the Great Spirit who comes in lofty flight to give rest to the weary. The richly flowing accompaniment underscores three modulating verses that gradually lift our souls to heaven. Suitable for Pentecost or General use.

Alfred
23712 - SATB (Level 3)
23713 - SAB (Level 2)

May We Enter the Stable?
View scoreView score page 1, page 2
Lovely song by Gene Grier, arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram for mixed voices. Incorporates the traditional "Polish Lullaby" (words translated by George Evans) and has optional flute part included in the score.

EverGreen Morning Press
EMP-0223 - SATB

My Lord, What a Morning
View scoreView SATB score page 1, page 2
MP3 audioListen to an excerpt
Stunning arrangement of the classic African American spiritual is appropriate for school or church use.  The SATB version of this expressive setting allows opportunity for a bass soloist (or section) to introduce each verse while the upper voices respond.  Supportive, beautiful accompaniment flows downward as "the stars begin to fall."

BriLee
BL225 - SATB
BL226 - Unison / Optional Two Part

Nearer, My God, To Thee
View scoreView score page 1, page 2
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Exquisite! Lowell Mason's classic hymn, made more familiar by its use in the movie, Titanic, has been arranged in a simply gorgeous setting. The text's comforting and prayerful thoughts are reflected in the moving and emotional choral arrangement by Ruth Elaine Schram and Walter Knapp, while the optional violin and cello lend an ethereal quality to this wistful arrangement. The musical quality is captivating and the stunning elegance will leave you and your congregation enveloped in the warmth of the Father's love!

Carl Fischer
CM8775 - SAB

Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen
View scoreView SATB score page 3, page 4
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
MP3 audioClick here to listen (Unison / Two Part)
This well-known spiritual comes to new life in this exquisite arrangement by Ruth Elaine Schram.  The harmonies are sonorous and warm, beautifully supporting the melody.  The syncopation gently propels the work through each phrase, ending softly on "Nobody knows my sorrow."  An aesthetic experience awaits your ensemble in this incredible arrangement.

BriLee
BL415 - SATB (limited range)
BL416 - Three Part Mixed
BL417 - Unison / Opt. Two Part
BLCD0T10 or BLCD0T12 - Accompaniment CD

Partner Songs for the Whole Year Long (cover) Partner Songs for the Whole Year Long
Original and traditional songs in combination for teaching part singing for elementary age children.

more info...

Peace Like a River
View scoreView score page 1, page 4, page 5
Traditional African-American Spiritual is set for unison or two part voices with flowing piano accompaniment. Expressive arrangement begins in 4/4, then goes into 3/4 as the text changes to "love is flowing," then back into an energetic 4/4 section for "joy like a fountain," then ends up as it began. Suitable for church or school use.

BriLee
BL175 - Unison / opt. Two Part

Rivers of His Love
View scoreView score page 12
MP3 audioListen to an excerpt
This ballad incorporates the beloved Spiritual "I've Got Peace Like a River" to create a beautiful song of assurance and praise.  The fluid piano part imitates the flowing water, and the optional flute part introduces the hymn tune later sung by the men.   Suitable any time during the church year for general use, during Lenten services, or for baptism.

Hal Leonard
08742530 - SATB

Rock-A-My-Soul
View scoreView score page 5, page 6
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Cute, light arrangement of the Traditional folk song arranged for SAB voices with optional percussion instruments. Lots of teaching opportunities with changing meters, styles, and tempos, but lots of fun to sing (and play!).  Suitable for church or school use.   Accompaniment cassette available; percussion parts included.

Shawnee Press
GM9806 - SAB
CT9806 - Accompaniment Cassette
CD0189 - Accompaniment CD

Sanctuary (cover) Sanctuary
Beautiful Piano Solo arrangements of reflective hymns are augmented by optional instrumental obbligatos for various instruments including French Horn, Trombone, Cello, Trumpet, Clarinet, Flute and Violin. Instrumental parts downloadable in a variety of clefs and voicings, giving many of your church musicians an opportunity to share their musical gifts with your congregation. Fresh, creative arrangements by Ruth Elaine Schram and Walter Knapp in this useful resource for your music program.

more info...

See Him in the Manger
View scoreView score page 1, page 2
MP3 audioListen to an excerpt
This original, rhythmic, upbeat Spiritual by Ruth Elaine Schram will be a change of pace for your Christmas program!  "See Him in the manger, time for joy!   Heaven's love has given us a baby boy.  See Him in the manger, time for praise!  Finally, a Savior after all these days..."

Hal Leonard
08742372 - SATB

Set Down, Servant
View scoreView score page 4, page 5
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Ruthie Schram has created a wonderful arrangement that captures the very essence of the well-known classic spiritual.  Optionally a cappella throughout, with optional solo phrases, exciting dynamics and a joyful rhythmic feel.  Singable voice parts, featuring movement in the bass line, make it entertaining and fun for your choir and audience.  Sure to be a winner!

Carl Fischer
CM8855 - SATB (opt. a cappella)
CM8852CD - Accompaniment CD

Simple Gifts
View scoreView Two Part score page 8, page 9
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
The 18th century Shaker hymn tune has been artfully arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram for multiple voicings.  Use of unison and echo singing, in conjunction with beautiful harmonies make this piece easy to learn but lush to the ear.  Optional flute part is included in the score.  Equally suitable for church or school use.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SVM01028 - SATB
SVM01031 - SSA
SVM01032 - TBB
SVM01029 - Three Part Mixed
SVM01030 - Two Part

Somebody Bigger Has the World In His Hands
View scoreView score page 3, page 5
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Ruth Elaine Schram imparts a message of comfort and hope with this partner song pairing "Somebody Bigger than You and I" by Johnny Lange, Hy Heath, and Sonny Burke, with the familiar tune "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands." The result is a powerful song that will be popular with both your choir and your congregation. Optional a cappella beginning sets the tone for a worshipful moment.

Carl Fischer
CM8924 - SATB

Steal Away
View scoreView SATB score page 7
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SATB)
MP3 audioClick here to listen (SSA)
Beautiful and sensitive setting of the well-known spiritual is suitable for church or school use. The musical imagery is exquisite with great expressive potential and lots of teaching opportunities. The limited range in the SATB version is perfect for the developing ensemble capable of four part harmony.

BriLee
BL353 - SATB
BL354 - SSA
BLCD00T5 or BLCD00T6 - Accompaniment CD

Suo Gan
View scoreView Three Part Mixed score page 4, page 5
The gorgeous lullaby that has been heard in several commercials has been arranged for young voices, and will be a lovely addition to your holiday concert or festival repertoire.  Available in Three Part Mixed and Two Part voicings.  Suitable for school or church use.

Alfred (formerly Warner Brothers)
SV98116 - Three Part Mixed
SV98115 - Two Part

Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
View scoreView Three Part Mixed score page 1, page 2
MP3 audioClick here to listen (Three Part Mixed)
Soulful arrangement of the African American Spiritual by Ruth Elaine Schram includes a mixture of up-beat swing eighths and a change of feel to lush, even eighths. Suitable for school or church use, with optional solo (which may be performed by unison choir).

BriLee
BL245 - Three Part Mixed
BL246 - Unison / Optional Two Part

They Crucified My Lord
View scoreView score page 1, page 2
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Poignant pairing of two favorite Lenten Spirituals, "Were You There?" and "He Never Said a Mumbalin' Word." Mixed meters (moving from 4/4 to 3/4 and back) emphasize the thought-provoking text of "Were You There," without being jarring. Very effective for Maundy Thursday, Communion Services, or any time during Lent.

Alfred (formerly Belwin Mills / Warner Bros.)
BSCM00022 - SATB

Wade in the Water
View scoreView SATB score page 5, page 6, page 7
MP3 audioListen to an excerpt
This light, jazzy "swing" arrangement of the folk song is perfect for general use in school or church. Guitar, Bass, and drum parts are included, and an accompaniment track is available. Moderate ranges are suitable for any age choir.

Alfred (formerly Warner Bros.)
SV98124 - Three Part Mixed
SV98123CT - Accompaniment Cassette

We Are Gathered Here
View scoreView score page 1, page 2
MP3 audioListen to an excerpt
This beautiful piece weaves portions of the well-known hymns "Brethren, We Have Met to Worship" and "Amazing Grace" with original words and music.  The text reminds us why we gather together in our places of worship: to confess our shortcomings, to receive God's grace, to bring Him our hopes and our cares, to unite in prayer and praise.  This work resonates with a gentle reverence, as portions of the hymns are sung by the men underneath the original music sung by the ladies.  The modulation into the last verse is unique and dramatic, in that the singers will actually be singing in a lower key than before.  This piece can be a very moving musical and spiritual experience!

Hal Leonard
08742649 - SATB

Were You There in Bethlehem?
View scoreView score page 4, page 5
This expressive anthem suitable any time during the Christmas season incorporates portions of the beloved spiritual, "Were You There?" woven with original words and music. Poetic imagery gently paints the scene, building up to the dramatic chorus:   "...If I had been there in Bethlehem, with heart full of wonder, I would have welcomed Him; If I had seen Him, touched Him, held Him..." Optional flute part included in the score adds to the beauty of this piece. Highly effective for Christmas Eve services. Accompaniment track is available.

Hal Leonard
08742371 - SATB

The Wexford Carol
View scoreView score page 6, page 7
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Ruth Elaine Schram's arrangement of the gorgeous carol is exquisite for ladies' voices and suitable for church or school use. "...In Bethlehem, upon that morn, there was a babe so wondrous, born..."

BriLee
BL400 - SSA
BLCD00T8 - Accompaniment CD

With What Shall I Come?
View scoreView score page 4, page 6
MP3 audioClick here to listen
Although this is an anthem suitable for general use, it would be particularly appropriate for a new stewardship emphasis or even as an offertory. Based on Micah 6:6-8, Ruth Elaine Schram's inspired treatment of this text is set in a minor mode, enhancing the essence of the scripture. A creative inclusion of a portion of the familiar Isaac Watts text "Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all" is a fitting culmination and response to the opening question of the anthem.

Exaltation (Lorenz)
10/2849L - SATB

Wonderful Grace
View scoreView score page 9, page 10
MP3 audioClick here to listen
What fun!! Delightful medley of "Grace" hymns, beginning with "Wonderful Grace of Jesus" by Haldor Lillenas, moving on to "Grace Greater Than Our Sin" by Julia Johnston and Daniel Towner, and quoting "Amazing Grace." Arranged by the creative duo of Walter Knapp and Ruth Elaine Schram, you will need an accomplished accompanist to keep up!

Carl Fischer
CM8920 - SATB

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