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.