As I Journey On - SAB Voices and Piano

Now available to the public! For your Fall, Spring, Year End, or Graduation concerts. Despite the accessible voicing, this powerful piece has a mature quality that is full of energy and strength.
 
The text for "As I Journey On" comes from a poem entitled Courage by American poet Ella Wheeler Wilcox. Originally published in 1916, this poem paints a stunning picture of humanity's resilience in all of the ups and downs of life. Wilcox articulates the journey of finding joy in the light, as well as the darkness. Our souls continue to sing through the journey. She also reminds us that we are a part of the "mighty whole," which illustrates the joy of singing in a choir. The undulating accompaniment provides a steady underlay. This piece should be sung with a sense of marcato articulations to communicate our strength and resilience. The repeated "whether the way be dark or light" figures should be thought of as an instrumental accompaniment that supports the melody. The djembe will add another important layer of unending resolve.
 
Whether the way be dark or light
My soul shall sing as I journey on,
As sweetly sings in the depths of night
As it sang in the burst of the golden dawn.
Yet the sun will wade in waves of gold,
And the stars in glory will shine at night.
For I am a part of the mighty whole;
And strong with the courage of love and faith.
 
I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to the singers of Dunstan Middle School Reflections, under the esteemed baton of Rebecca Hubbard. Your premiere performance at CMEA is something I will never forget. Thank you all for your artistry, passion, talent, and unending dedication to bringing beauty to the world.