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Download an MP3 file of a performance of this work (SATB, brass, percussion, and piano) by the Texas State University Chorale, Joey M. Martin, conductor.
Download an MP3 file of a folk performance of the original song on which this new arrangement is based.
Download a PDF file of the choral score of this composition. For perusal only -- not printable.
Download a PDF file of selected pages from the score with annotations for optional added percussion accompaniment (played by members of the chorus) when performing this work simply with piano.
Commissioned by David and Johanna Publow for the 50th Anniversary of the Manchester Choral Society. Premiered on May 20, 2011 - Manchester, New Hampshire, Dan Perkins, Music Director.
This new work is an adaptation of a traditional song, "Lord, I've Got Some Singing to Do!"
"O Lord, I've got some singing to do. Don't take me, Lord, too soon!"
As a celebratory expression, the music is set in a swing rhythm, marked "joyfully." In this style, the chorus sings of the earth, the sun, the moon and the rain.
A middle section is inserted into this song. Starting with the familiar lyrics "Every time I feel the spirit," (with new music), the words are appropriately altered with the response, "I will sing!" And indeed, "as long as I have joy and breath, I will sing!"
The song concludes with a final verse recognizing the musical experience shared with friends. "O Lord, we've got some singing to do!"
Notes by the composer