An A Cappella Triptych
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Three Latin works -- Kyrie Eleison, Cantate Domino, and Musica Dei -- are tied together by their a cappella nature. Sung individually or all together, they form a satisfying whole. Perfect for contest, festival or performance. A rehearsal scratch track is provided on the accompaniment CD.

Ahrirang
Lovely setting of the beloved Korean folk song about the mountain pass of Ahrirang Hill. Sung predominantly in English, the pentatonic melodies and open harmonies are presented in unison and canon to appropriately convey the style of the song and the depiction of the text. Ahrirang is often believed to be a symbol of peace, contentment, and personal triumph. This makes a wonderful selection to teach the context and style of music from that region.

All Through the Night
View Two Part score page 1, page 2, page 3
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This gorgeous arrangement of the Welsh folk song is a perfect choice for the Christmas season or any time. Easily learned; suitable for children's voices or ladies voices.  The SSA version of this song was a number one seller and this arrangement was adapted for use in the HBO television series, "The Sopranos".

Also available in the "Rise Up and Sing!" SSA concert collection.

Alleluia We Sing
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A touch of syncopation and a lively keyboard part give this non-sectarian "Alleluia" a fine vigor and energy. As a pure expression of the joy of singing, this selection will be very appealing to a young mixed choir or treble group. Suitable for contest or festival use, equally useful in your concert programming.

America the Beautiful
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The classic patriotic piece has been arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram for school or church use.  Use it to begin or end your concert, or as an encore.  The optional baritone part in the mixed voicing offers more options for choirs with changing male voices.  Suitable for observances of national holidays or general use.

Angels Watching Over Me
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Equally suitable for school or church use, this delightful melding of three spirituals allows opportunities for young, developing choirs to create beautiful tone quality while preparing for an artistic performance. Beginning with "All Night, All Day," the song glides into "In the morning, when I rise ..." and concludes with "Every night when the sun goes in ... Angels watching over me...." For mixed or treble voices.

Baloo Baleerie
This beautiful Scottish lullaby is appropriate for seasonal or general use, Festivals or Concerts. The text is in English with Gaelic subtext, along with an accessible pronunciation guide. The vowels of the text lend themselves to teaching beautiful tone. Flexibly voiced for Three-part Mixed voices with an optional Baritone part, or SSA voices. Lovely, lyrical, and simply beautiful arrangement by Ruthie Schram.

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

Beneath the Snow
What a fresh, new take on a winter piece with an important theme of hope and determination! The text sings of a secret garden beneath the snow where all the flower bulbs are determined to grow and develop underground despite winter's cold, snow, and ice so that they can be the first to announce the arrival of spring. Expressive and beautiful writing by Linda Marcus and Ruth Elaine Schram!

Black is the Color of My True Love's Hair
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This beautiful American folk melody has been given a gorgeous new setting for mixed or men's voices.  This gem will be a popular choice for concert and festival performances for years to come.

Blow, Bugle, Blow
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Memorable melodies abound in this distinguished setting of the Tennyson text. The haunting main theme and canonic effect of the chorus echo make this piece easy to learn and extremely accessible for young singers and developing choirs. A perfect starter piece to begin the year, and the modal flavor creates a splendid programming contrast!

Brave Achiever (Beyond Where Sky Meets Sea)
Inspired by explorers who braved the unknown and discovered new lands and countries, this piece highlights how critical it is for each of us to believe in our own abilities and to reach for our own goals in the face of trials and setbacks. A wonderfully positive way to teach our students to stand up under social pressure and emphasize the value that each student's life possesses! By Ruth Elaine Schram and Aren Newell Williams.

For free part-by-part Rehearsal and Accompaniment MP3s, go to BriLee Music.

By Your Side and In Your Heart
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This inspirational text by Lynne Wolfe-Richards has been set to powerful music by Ruth Elaine Schram and makes the perfect graduation piece. "...Let the river be your guide, let the sun be your warmth, let the trees be your shelter, let the wind be your force; you have nothing to fear, nothing to hide, and remember I am always by your side and in your heart..." Due to the themes of nature woven throughout, this song would also be a good choice for Earth Day or Spring concerts.

Children of the World
Authentic folk songs from around the world are especially arranged for beginning Two Part voices. Compiled and edited by Andy Beck and Brian Fisher, accompaniments orchestrated by Tim Hayden. Fun fact pages provide a fascinating look at cultures of nine countries on four continents, as well as doubling as an optional narration for a 30 minute program. Includes Ruthie Schram's gorgeous arrangement of the lovely Welsh lullaby, Suo Gan. Handbook is 100% Reproducible for your convenience.

Cielito Lindo
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Delightful, authentic arrangement of this well-known Mexican folk song moves quickly! This arrangement features both Spanish and English texts; pronunciation given. The English is a direct translation from the Spanish. The piano accompaniment captures the sound of Flamenco Guitars and Mariachi trumpets. Available in two voicings for developing choirs.

Come Thou Fount
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"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.

Cranberry Creek
Your singers are sure to love this toe tapping original by John Parker and Ruth Elaine Schram, which takes the choir on a visit to the great Smokey Mountains of Tennessee, letting them experience life at a slower and lazier pace. Perfect for Spring Concerts or General Use.

A Day in the Life of the Sun
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Stunning, amazing choral tone poem with a soaring melody, accessible ranges, poignant text, and colorful piano accompaniment will captivate singers and listeners alike. Brilliant portrayal of the sun's journey across the sky, flexibly voiced for Unison, Two Part, or SSA choirs. Suitable for general use; particularly effective for Earth Day or Spring concerts. "I begin the journey with a fire of anticipation, I rise into the skies of blue; there is nothing but air beneath me..."

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

Do Lord
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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.

Doraji
This lovely pentatonic Korean folk song is framed with gentle harmonies and a free-flowing melody. Lyrics in both Korean and English are sure to capture the hearts and minds of your singers and audience. A refreshing addition to any concert program! A pronunciation guide is included.

Dreams that Children Dream
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There is an innocence and optimism about the way children view the world, and this inspiring original by Ruthie Schram and her daughter, Celsie Staggers, captures the essence of their delight and wonder. Beginning with the anticipation of morning, then moving on into their daily exploration of the world around them, the piece then culminates in the warm satisfaction of day's end. We are encouraged to dream with them the dreams that children dream: dreams of hope, happiness, peace and security. A terrific signature piece for your choir!

Echoes of Kindness
In this delightful original work, Ruth Elaine Schram and Linda Marcus offer a sincere and important message about the lasting effects that our words and deeds have on everyone around us. "...In every single life we touch, a tiny difference can mean so much…may the echoes of kindness go on and on and on..." Limited ranges, ample unison, and easily learned vocals all spell success for your young and developing choirs.

The Erie Canal
Take your singers on a ride on the Erie Canal, one of America's time-honored folk songs! Ruthie Schram's rhythmically interesting arrangement is full of syncopations and will develop excellent diction in young singers. If it suits the needs and abilities of the ensemble, the optional second part provides an opportunity to teach and hear descant-style harmony.

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

Also available for solo male voice in Ruthie's "Traveling On" collection (BLB003).

Every Night When the Sun Goes In
View SATB score page 1, page 2, page 3
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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.

Fare You Well
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Ruth Elaine Schram's arrangement of the beautiful folk song is gentle and flowing, while evoking a sense of longing.  Also known as "Nora's Dove," or "Sad Man Blues," this song with its roots in the African American Spiritual expresses a search for freedom, a yearning to go home, a hopelessness that builds to the hope found in "spreading your wings."  Suitable any time during the school year.

Fly High, You Grand Old Flag
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How do you spell built-in success for young, developing choirs? A partner song that works! The patriotic George M. Cohan favorite "You're a Grand Old Flag" is partnered with a delightful original melody for use any time of the year. A rousing, energetic gem that will get your audience on their feet!

For the Beauty of the Earth
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The text of the classic Hymn tune is set to beautiful new music by Ruth Elaine Schram.   Arranged for multiple voicings, suitable for school or church use.  Would be particularly meaningful for Spring concerts or Earth Day.

Give Me America
View Three Part Mixed score page 6
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This uplifting patriotic gem features limited ranges and extreme accessibility. An original melody introduces the theme as the song builds from unison to harmony. In the final section, the original material works in partnership with My Country, 'Tis of Thee, and then concludes with the climactic statement: Give me America; let freedom ring! Sure-fire success for your developing Elementary or Middle School choir.

Gloria Tibi Domine
This uplifting setting of a traditional Latin text will make the perfect opening statement on your next concert. Extended repetition helps to ease the learning process while saving rehearsal time. Available for Two Part or Three Part Mixed voices.

Go 'Way from my Window
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Lovely arrangement of the American Folk Song, arranged in multiple voicings with beautiful, flowing piano accompaniment.

Grumble Too Much
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Based on the premise that women "grumble too much," this upbeat arrangement of the Jamaican Folk Song features lots of fun, back-and-forth dialogue and interplay between the men and the ladies in the SATB edition, and the higher and lower voices in the TTB edition. Several small percussion patterns are included and may be employed throughout, and portions of the accompaniment are designed to sound like steel drums, lending an authentic Island feel for an effective performance.

He's Gone Away
View score page 4, page 5
Beautiful North Carolina folk song arranged for ladies' voices. Supportive accompaniment is expressive and moving.

Heaven!
This bright, upbeat pairing of the spirituals "I Ain't Gonna Grieve My Lord No More" and "I Got Shoes" features call and response and simple harmonies supported by a fun, rhythmic piano accompaniment. Especially effective as a concert or festival opener or closer, it is a superb programming choice for young and developing choirs.

Hola! Hello!
View Three Part Mixed score page 3, page 4
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Fun, educational piece that includes greetings of friendship in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Chinese, with optional sign language. Pictures to demonstrate the American Sign Language phrases are included in the score for ease of learning, and cues are given throughout the score for placement of signs.

Hooray for Hollywood!
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The delightful thirties classic by Johnny Mercer and Richard A. Whiting has now been arranged for your singers in multiple voicings by Ruth Elaine Schram. Great as an opener for your next concert! Optional guitar, bass and drum parts are included in the score, or use the accompaniment track for added sparkle.

How Can I Keep from Singing
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Superb voice leading characterizes this SSA setting of the Traditional Quaker Hymn. A perfect choice for contests or festivals, this piece provides a wonderful opportunity for an aesthetic experience for your singers. Moderately difficult, this song uses echo, repetition, and modulation not only for a beautiful, interesting performance but to provide teaching opportunities for balance and blend. Your group will sound warm and sensitive on this flowing setting.

I Hear the Windmill
This fast-moving setting of the French Canadian folksong "J'entends le Moulin" is perfect for developing choirs. Optional percussion parts, English or French lyrics, and performance suggestions make this accessible work a delight to prepare and perform! Performance / Accompaniment CD available.

I Will Sing
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"I will sing, though the world may be silent, I believe someone is listening..."   Beautiful, uplifting song of the power of music to bring us together and of the difference that one individual joining with others can make.   Commissioned by the Alabama ACDA Young Voices Festival, Shirley Ellison and Lisa Latham, Co-Directors.  Optional cello part included in score.

I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing
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Many know this song by Backer, Davis, Cook, and Greenaway as the Coca-Cola commercial theme from the '70's.  It's an ideal, lighthearted song of brotherhood and togetherness that is timeless and uplifting.

If You Search
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This sensitive and thoughtful text is set to a lovely, catchy tune your students will love. An alternate text makes this song suitable for church or school use. Available for mixed voices or ladies' voices, also arranged for solo voice in the "When I Reflect" collection.

Irish Friendship Wish
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This setting of one of the many Irish Blessings is beautifully set with a gentle melody and colorful, yet supportive, harmonies in the keyboard. Very expressive, this piece may be performed unison, as a solo, or as a Two Part work. Suitable any time during the school year, it is especially meaningful as an end-of-year piece or for graduation services.

Jibuli, Jibuli
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This rhythmic Tanzanian Folk Song ("Jibuli" is Tanzanian for rabbit) is absolutely terrific for young choirs just beginning part-singing. Featuring echo passages and a descant-like section, it is extremely accessible and ensures built-in success. Optional conga parts are included in the score and add a colorful flair.

Kyrie
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The melody to this two part setting of the Latin text is chant-like but the harmonies are warm.  Ebb and flow, dynamic changes, a rising climax, and a return to gentleness all result in a beautifully crafted work that helps build a sense of expressiveness into your ensemble.  A great teaching and performance piece for Two Part Men's voices or Two Part Treble voices.

MP3 rehearsal aids and Accompaniment Tracks are available as a free download from the publisher.

Kyrie (for ladies' voices)
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The vocal harmonies in this lovely setting of the Greek "Kyrie" create a shimmering effect in this tasteful original for ladies' voices. The modulation heightens the tension, only to be released as the work closes. This sonorous, expressive work will be a welcome addition to your library.

Kyrie Eleison (published by BriLee)
View Three Part Mixed score page 1, page 2
Chant-like in its melodic movement, yet wonderfully contemporary in its harmonic warmth, this Three Part Mixed setting of the Latin text strikes a balance between the old and new world.  Melodic planing and a gentle rubato bring a wonderful expressiveness to this work, creating an opportunity for an exquisite aesthetic experience for your developing ensemble.

Let My People Go
The pairing of these two traditional Spirituals ("Deep River" and "Go Down, Moses") was sparked by their common subject: the Israelites' flight from Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea to get to the Promised Land. The expansive nature of this powerful melding will give each section of your SSA chorus an opportunity to stretch and shine.

Listen!
Quoting the Traditional Gaelic melody "Bunessan" (Morning Has Broken) and "Merrial" (Now the Day is Over), Ruth Elaine Schram delivers a rhythmic, pulsing a cappella choral that is engaging and fun. Mixed meters are juxtaposed with homophonic, chorale-style harmonies, and build to a thrilling conclusion. "Listen to the rhythm, the rhythm of life!" Voiced for Mixed choirs with divisi.

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids are available from the publisher.

The Lone, Wild Bird
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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 a 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 heavenward.

A Long Way from Home
Gorgeous pairing of two beloved Spirituals; "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child" and "Going Home" (theme from Dvorak's "New World" Symphony). The two combine effortlessly in this lovely, flowing setting. Dreamy, poignant and tasteful, it will touch the hearts of all who hear it. Voiced for Three Part Mixed voices with an optional Baritone part, making it extremely flexible for the developing (or small) choir.

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

The Lorelei
Popular German folk song recounts the tale of the lure of the Siren's song and the sailor's fatal shipwreck in this haunting setting for male voices. Lush, romantic harmonies and lovely part writing create a dreamy effect as the story unfolds, and builds to its chilling conclusion. "Be warned, my friend, and heed not the call of the Lorelei!"

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

May I Be a Hero
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This flowing original selection passes a lovely and thoughtful melody between the voices in a flawless stream of music that practically sings itself. Perfect for graduation, concert closer or a signature piece, this work will be taken to heart by all who sing it and listen to it. Also available for solo voice in the "When I Reflect" collection.

Miserere Nobis
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This appropriately mournful setting of the traditional Latin text is rich in harmonic nuances and lyrical melodic lines. With full Latin text, singable voice parts in open score, and a keyboard part that does more than support the voices, this is a work of high quality for mixed choirs. May also be done a cappella by more advanced choirs for an additional challenge.

Move Into the Stillness
Ruth Elaine Schram and Linda Marcus have once again combined their considerable talents to create a memorable result in the form of this poignant original work that calls on us to take time out of our busy days to move into peace, silence, and tranquility. Available for Mixed or Treble voices, suitable for Concert or Festival Use.

My Declaration (I Will Stand)
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Commissioned in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 by the Montgomery Academy in Montgomery, Alabama (Damion Womack, director), this patriotic ballad gives singers the opportunity to make a stand for their nation and for freedom. This powerful, moving song of unity is available for SATB voices and has a soprano descant on the final chorus.

My Memory
Written in loving memory of her father and based upon a cherished childhood memory, this original selection by Ruthie Schram is a tender and unique portrayal of love and loss. Lovely melodies adeptly illustrate poetic images of autumn's bold and brilliant colors juxtaposed with the gray of winter. The addition of the optional bell part enhances the shimmering texture of this unforgettable piece.

A New Day Has Dawned
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Celebrate the coming of spring with this rhapsodic, poetic original on the theme of life's renewal and the rebirth of hope. " ... A new day has dawned, and in this very hour the time has come at last to flower. There is wonder all around, there is joy to be found, and a new song to sing as we celebrate the spring." Accessibly voiced for Three-Part Mixed choirs with an optional baritone part for a four-part choral texture.

Night Noises
View Three Part Mixed score page 1, page 2, page 3
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With just the right touch of mystery, this unique original will captivate and enchant your singers as well as your audience! Vivid word pictures paint the scene of the musical noises we hear in nature after the sun sets. Rhyme and alliteration are employed to full advantage to make the text memorable. A marvelous, creative programming choice for your developing choir!

Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen
View SATB score page 3, page 4
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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.

The Ocean Is a Restless Heart
The music so beautifully captures the feeling of a restless heart, this minor-key original by John Parker and Ruth Elaine Schram is a true treble showpiece. The memorable melody and effective mixed meter make the contemplative lyrics come to life!

Oh, Shenandoah (for ladies' voices)
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This gorgeous arrangement for ladies voices by Ruth Elaine Schram is characterized by beautiful harmonies and warm musical lines.  It is sensitive, expressive, and stirring -- all the things that make up an aesthetic experience for your group.

On Winter's Eve
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Gorgeous text and melody by John Parker and Ruth Elaine Schram depicts the point of time when autumn relinquishes its time in the year's cycle of seasons to the three months of winter. Although the music may include some unexpected chord progressions, the writers were careful to keep the voice leading easy to learn. Suitable for Winter concerts, contests and festival use.

Peace Like a River
View 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.

Promise of Spring
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This exuberant anthem for ladies voices in lilting 6/8 time has optional flute, guitar, and tambourine parts included in the score. The text by Linda Marcus and Ruth Elaine Schram speaks of the beauty, the treasures of earth hidden beneath the winter snows that will be revealed in the Springtime.  It would be an interesting and unexpected selection for a winter concert, or an ideal choice for a Spring program or Earth Day.  Also appropriate for festivals and contests.

Red River Valley
View SATB score page 6, page 7
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Lush harmonies set a mournful mood for this creative partnering of the American folk songs "Red River Valley" and "Down in the Valley." The two tunes meld unexpectedly in the last verse, the use of echo fortifies the "valley" theme, and dynamic contrast supports the poignancy of the lovelorn text. Available for SATB or SSAB voices.

Rise, Rise Thou Merry Lark
Melodic and singable, with delightful harmonies, this setting of the Welsh folk song has a bright, lilting feel. It's a great piece for teaching the musical line, and the ranges are very appropriate for young singers.

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

Rock Island Line
Fun, singable arrangement of the folk song for young TB choirs is short and sweet! "Want to ride it? Go like you're a-flyin'? Buy your ticket at the station on the Rock Island Line!"

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

Rockwood River
Commissioned by the All-Cleveland County (North Carolina) Middle School Choral Festival. Pure fun abounds in this unison/optional two-part original folk song by Mark Cabaniss, arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram. Your choir will enjoy singing about the folks from Rockwood River, where life is easy and the pace is slow. The optional fiddle and string bass parts, enhanced with intermittent clapping, add a realistic musical depiction of a Huck Finn / Tom Sawyer adventure. Available in two voicings.

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

Set Down, Servant
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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!

Shalom, Pacem, Peace
Based upon the haunting "By the Waters of Babylon" folk tune, this gorgeous, poignant setting is a call for peace in three languages: Hebrew, Latin, and English. Set as a round, it will work for any combination of voices and will be easily learned by any age group. Optional instrumental parts for Cello and Two Violins (or Flute and Oboe) add depth and beauty to the flowing accompaniment in this piece that is equally effective for school and church.

Simple Gifts
View Two Part score page 8, page 9
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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.

Sing a Little, Dance a Little
View Three Part Mixed score page 1, page 2
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"Music is like medicine and music does a body good ... let's sing a little, dance a little, have a little fun today..."  This lighthearted original lets everyone know why we enjoy music and want to sing!

Singing in the Rain
View Three Part Mixed score page 3
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The classic favorite by Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed. Delightful arrangement captures the innocence and joy of another era. Accompaniment cassette or CD is available; optional guitar, bass and drum parts are included.  The Two Part version has been added to Warner Bros.' new "Spotlight on Kids" series, with arrangements of pop standards and Broadway tunes specifically arranged for younger voices.

Somebody Bigger Has the World In His Hands
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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 singers and listeners. Optional a cappella beginning sets the tone for this classy setting.

Somewhere Above the Clouds
Possessing artistic poetic images by Herb Frombach, gorgeous melodies and beautiful harmonies by Ruthie Schram, this unforgettable showpiece for treble voices encourages us to "listen with our very soul" to the angels' song, "Somewhere Above the Clouds." This selection is perfect for concert and festival use throughout the year.

Song of the Open Road
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Based on poetry from Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass, this optimistic work proclaims the freedom we have to choose our own path in life. An excellent way to teach expressive, interpretive singing as you expose your students to an important work of American literature with a positive outlook on the adventure of life; perfect for Spring or Graduation ceremonies.

Sound Advice (the Axiom Rap)
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Your students will love this song! Verses are well-known words of wisdom woven together thematically, learned and performed in rap style as speech chorus. The chorus is a catchy phrase sung in unison that encourages the audience to "Listen up; here's some sound advice..." Delightful novelty piece suitable any time of the year!

The Spirit Says Sing!
Developing choirs will love this fun medley of two traditional spirituals, "I'm Gonna Sing" and "Every Time I Feel the Spirit." Rhythmic and upbeat, the supportive accompaniment punctuates the rhythms while adding color and texture. The optional Descant provides an added opportunity for either a soloist or small group, and seamlessly ties the two tunes together. A valuable Learning Resource Page is included as an added bonus.

Streets of Laredo
Ruthie Schram's arrangement of this traditional ballad opens with a solo voice describing the scene in this Texas town. When the rest of the TBB chorus joins in, they benefit from the full, rich part writing. A great selection for the male chorus!

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

The Swallow
View SSA score page 6, page 7
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Exquisite setting of the lovely Newfoundland folk song tenderly expresses the mourning and sense of loss evident in this piece. The soaring melody and sonorous harmonies are wonderfully supported by a moving accompaniment.

The Talents We Possess
Commissioned by the Keene State College Choir in Keene, New Hampshire, Ruth Elaine Schram has penned a very thoughtful and beautiful composition. She encourages us all to use the talents we possess, and develop them to the best of our ability. Even though we are not all destined to be the best at what we do, we can still be the best we can be.

Everyone can relate to the inspirational message of the text, which is well served by the lovely music. This is a perfect selection for graduation or end-of-year ceremonies. "So, sing your song, let your radiance shine! Combine your gifts with those of mine. How lovely the world could be if we each gave our best of the talents we possess."

Free MP3 part-by-part rehearsal aids and accompaniments are available from the publisher.

Thank You Again
View score page 3, page 4
With tender music appropriate for her text, Ruth Elaine Schram has written a lovely two-part treble piece that will do much to encourage thoughtfulness in the young performers. The piece is particularly suitable for Winter and Spring Concert use, acknowledging the contribution of parents and grandparents in our lives, with alternate text to honor civil servants such as police, firefighters and the armed forces that would make this piece suitable for end of year, patriotic, or law-enforcement awareness celebrations.

That Promised Land
In "That Promised Land," Ruth Elaine Schram has paired two traditional spirituals - "Walk Together, Children," and "When the Saints Go Marching In," and the result is a pure delight. After each song is first stated alone, they are cleverly partnered in a way that makes this arrangement both easy-to-learn and fun for any combination of two-part voices and choirs of all ages. Delightful accompaniment track (orchestrated by Tim Hayden) makes this tune sparkle! Suitable for school or church use.

Together We Can Change the World
"Together, We Can Change the World" (Songs for a Better Planet) is breaking new ground - all of the scores and resources are provided as data files on the CDrom, making this collection 100% reproducible. In addition, the folder in which the CD is encased is printed on 100% post-consumer recycled material.

Whether you need unison choral pieces, a resource to introduce your students to part-singing, or a full-scale musical complete with narrations and supporting materials, these enriching songs fit the bill. The optional use of partner songs and simple two-part harmony subtly underscores the themes of cooperation and community building that run throughout this collection. Beginning with songs that encourage friendship and acceptance, the collection progresses to songs that introduce "green" themes of reducing waste, recycling, and working together to cherish and protect our natural resources. Narrations are included to give additional information and introduce each song, and delightfully orchestrated Accompaniment tracks (by Tim Hayden) are included.

Ubi Caritas
View SATB score page 3, page 4
Click here to listen (SATB)
Click here to listen (SSA)
Powerful setting of the Latin text which means "where there is charity and love, God is there." Although there are some unexpected chord progressions, this song is only moderately difficult. Available in three voicings. May be used in church settings; also suitable for school contest and festival use.

Wade in the Water
View SATB score page 5, page 6, page 7
Listen 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.

The Water Is Wide (Waly, Waly)
View score page 2, page 5
Click here to listen
The beloved folk song is given fresh treatment in this new arrangement by Ruth Elaine Schram. An optional text by Robert Louis Stevenson adds even more flexibility to the beautiful melody. Refreshing and alive, this wonderful gem will provide your singers with an aesthetic experience that is easy to learn and express.

We Circle Around
Based on an Arapaho folk tune, this enchanting piece from the talented pen of Ruth Elaine Schram celebrates the beauty of nature and the circularity of life. An optional flute obbligato adds the crowning touch to this evocative work full of mysterious melodies and thoughtful harmonies.

We Sing, We Dance!
View score page 9, page 10, page 11
Click here to listen
This upbeat original vibrates with joy and intensity! The rhythm of the earth is represented in the drums, stomps and Flamenco-style claps, which build to the contrasting bridge. This flowing section celebrates the gift of music, then moves us full circle back to the joyful opening theme for a climactic conclusion. Commissioned by the Florida Elementary Music Educators Association and premiered at the FMEA All State Elementary Chorus concert. Scored for Two or Three Part Treble voices,with opt. drum part included in score.

We Will Rejoice
Ruth Elaine Schram's upbeat and inspirational work based upon Psalm 118 is a great way to begin your choir season! Energetic rhythm and crisp consonants set the tone for this joyful anthem. An optional second part adds a wonderful complement to the strong melody.

Commissioned by the Louisiana District 9 Elementary Honor Choir in memory of Georgia Mannino, a beloved teacher, and based upon her favorite Psalm.

What Lies Within
View SATB score page 1, page 7
Click here to listen (SATB)
Linda Marcus and Ruth Elaine Schram have created a powerful work quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson: "What lies behind us, what lies before us, does not compare to that which lies within!..." A strong a cappella beginning unfolds into the perfect selection for Spring concerts, Graduation ceremonies, or concerts that feature inspirational songs of optimism in the human spirit.

When I Reflect (octavo)
View SATB score page 3
Click here to listen (SATB)
Unique choice for graduation / end-of-year ceremonies that will show honor and appreciation to parents and teachers for their contributions to students' lives.   Some words in the Two Part voicing have been changed to make this version more age-appropriate. A solo arrangement is also available in a collection (see below).

The Wide Missouri
A fresh paring of two beloved American Folk Songs ("Shenandoah" with "The Water is Wide") will offer a moment of peaceful reflection at your concert or festival. The fluid accompaniment ties the two songs together, both culturally and geographically, with a flowing texture that represents the movement of the water. A helpful Learning Resource Page is included in order to tie the piece to the National Standards and present cross-curricular opportunities.

The Wind
View Two Part score page 1, page 2
Click here to listen (SATB)
Expressive word pictures depict the journey of the wind and the changing of the seasons. Voices hauntingly and antiphonally sing "oo," mimicking the sound of the wind blowing "...across the ocean blue from anywhere to me..." and fading to nothing at the end.

The World in My Dream
Can you imagine a world without music? This sincere and inspirational original encourages all who hear it to fill the void with their own unique song, and thus fill the world with music. "What a wonderful place, filled with beauty and grace; the world in my dream!" A wonderful signature piece for end-of-year, or contest / festival!