Octavo of the Month (October 2005)
Mike Walag, ICDA High School R&S Chair
Psalm 100
René Clausen, arr. Drew Collins
Mark Foster MF5002
SATB, 2 pianos or small instrumental ensemble
Moderate Difficulty, 3:15
Many of you have probably performed the SSAA arrangement of this, which has been published for several years, and has been a favorite at State Large Group contest. I think your SATB choirs will find this piece equally rewarding.
This is a great piece with driving rhythms, frequent metrical shifts, a wonderfully jubilant text, and a sectionalized form and texture that keeps it interesting, contrasting, and inspiring throughout. The accompaniment is equal to the voice parts in importance and in creative rhythmic energy.
It does require two fairly good pianists or you may use an instrumental ensemble of piano, flute, oboe, bassoon, marimba, high/low drums and string bass.