A New Alleluia: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Althouse brings the sensibility of a publishing professional to his choral writing, and it shows in the clarity and singability of this piece. The inclusion of a recorded accompaniment track with the octavo means your singers can rehearse independently and arrive at rehearsal already familiar with their parts, saving precious sectional time. For directors programming sacred music with a contemporary feel, this delivers accessibility without sacrificing musicality.

The text anchors this piece in something timeless, but Althouse's harmonic and melodic language feels immediate and singable. There is a clarity here that makes the spiritual message feel direct and uncluttered, with the kind of musical confidence that comes from a composer who has written for countless singers at various skill levels.

This octavo works for choirs ranging from middle school through adult levels seeking contemporary sacred music with straightforward vocal writing. Directors with limited accompanist availability or rehearsal time will find the recorded track especially valuable for independent practice and learning reinforcement.

• Balance the choir's blend against the recorded accompaniment by doing an initial run-through with voices only, then gradually bring in the track at rehearsal volume to hear where blend adjustments are needed.
• Since your singers will have heard the accompaniment while learning their parts, use at least one full rehearsal with only the piano or a cappella to strengthen their independence and listening skills.
• Mark any tempo fluctuations in the recording during an early listen-through with your choir so no one is surprised by rubato or slight ritardandos during performance.
• Consider using the accompaniment track in the weeks before performance as a warm-up tool for altos and basses who may need extra security on their lines.

This fits naturally into a mixed sacred concert or service program where you need music that is both substantive and approachable for audiences. Consider pairing it with a cappella or unaccompanied pieces to highlight the variety in your program, or use it as a showcase moment when you want maximum choral focus without complex instrumental requirements.

• Singing with precise intonation over recorded accompaniment
• Maintaining independence from instrumental accompaniment while staying rhythmically aligned
• Blending within four-part SATB texture
• Interpreting text expression in contemporary sacred contexts