Work
O My Children, My Poor Children!
for SATB choir and big band
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Borrow/Hire:
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About
This work is a setting of part of Henry Longfellow’s epic poem, 'Song of Hiawatha'. Written in 1855, the poem relates the fictional adventures of Native American characters facing the universal dangers of wars and fighting and contains a heart-felt plea for peace.
"Chris wrote a wonderful work that captured the imagination of both players and singers, and provided an idiomatic performance experience that was not typical for either the choir members or jazz band players. The debut performance was very well received by the audience, and Chris had the novel experience of students wanting him to autograph their scores after the concert!" David Squire, Director of NZ Youth Choir
“It is an authentic and accessible jazz work that allows the young singer to experience this important genre in a meaningful way. The text adds meaningful depth and it would make a wonderful addition to a program that focuses on the good in humanity. It perfectly balances between choir and jazz ensemble, with moments where the instrumentalists play alone and allows talented soloists to shine”. Dr Robert Hasty, Director of ISCMS Festival Choir & Big Band
Commissioned note
Commissioned by International Schools Choral Music Society, Shanghai, February 2019
Text note
Henry Longfellow, extract from 'Song of Hiawatha'