Agnus Dei: 3-Part/SAB Choral Octavo
By Brian Lewis
Item: 00-PO-0000022
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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About the Composer: Brian Lewis

Brian Lewis studied composition at Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory in Ohio before pursuing conducting at Western Michigan University, where he also earned his teaching certification. His background spans public school choral direction in Michigan, film scoring through USC's specialized program, and commissioned work for high school ensembles. He remains active in composition and can be reached at scoresfilm@yahoo.com.
Why we love this
Lewis writes for the voices in front of him, which means this setting sits naturally for developing choirs without sacrificing musicality. The A-B-A structure gives singers a clear architectural anchor while the warm harmonies feel sophisticated enough that students will take the music seriously.
What to expect
Warm and meditative, this setting invites singers into a contemplative space. The harmonies embrace the traditional text without heaviness; instead, the piece radiates clarity and gentle sincerity.
Who it's for
Mixed choirs in grades 5-8 or high school ensembles building foundational skills in blend, intonation, and expressive singing will find this piece accessible and rewarding. It works equally well for developing treble choirs seeking sophisticated sacred literature that doesn't demand advanced technical skills.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the soprano line against the alto and bass voices. The melody should sing through without dominating; think of it as first among equals rather than a solo voice.
- Shape the text expressively. "Agnus Dei" calls for gentle dynamic contours that follow the natural phrasing of each line, especially across the contrasting B section.
- Rehearse the SAB voicing vertically first. Lock each chord quality before moving through harmonic progressions to ensure blend and intonation are secure.
- Allow the B section to breathe differently from the outer sections. A subtle tempo shift or textural change can highlight the formal design without disrupting the piece's lyrical quality.
How to use it
This fits naturally into spring or winter choral concerts that feature sacred works, or as a centerpiece in a liturgical context. Pair it with contrasting pieces in different languages or styles to highlight its lyrical character and harmonic sophistication.
Skills your students will build
- Singing in three-part mixed voicing with clear voice independence
- Balancing melody and harmony within an ensemble texture
- Phrasing and shaping expressive melodic lines in Latin text
- Understanding and executing A-B-A formal design
- Blending and tuning diatonic harmonic progressions