Category: TTBB CHOIRS
Composer: J. Aaron McDermid
Arranger: NA
Publisher: Mark Foster/Shawnee
Edition: 35004411
Voicing: TTBB
Setting: A Cappella
Reviewer:
Michael Culloton
The Singers 2001
R&R Chair TTBB Choirs
J. Aaron McDermid composed this piece for a funeral of a family friend. One of the most beautiful texts that I have encountered, the piece begins with unison singing of the line “Come sing to me of heaven, when I am called to die. Sing songs of holy ecstacy to waft my soul on high.” The texture increases to four part (TTBB, a cappella) sonority, as the texts describes “When the last moment comes, let one sweet song begin. Let music cheer me last on earth to greet me first in heaven.” Building to a key change to the relative major, the piece becomes a triumphant celebration of heaven and song, only to wind down again tot the intimacy of the initial opening. You will love sharing this piece with your students and audience members.