Canticum Novum: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Name: Canticum Novum: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-47724
Price: 2.05 USD
Availability: InStock

Words and music by Andy Beck

Item: 00-47724

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Designed for impact in performance without stress in rehearsal, this strong concert/contest opener (or closer) features an accessible Latin text that alternates with English lyrics. A bold unison, sung in sweet-spot vocal ranges, leads to an antiphonal treatment of the marcato theme. A softer section, in three-part counterpoint, provides contrast before returning to the original melody. This celebratory piece works on any program, at any time of year, and provides wonderful lessons for developing choral singers.

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Series: Alfred Choral Designs

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 12

UPC: 038081544175

SKU: 00-47724

More about this title

About the Composer: Andy Beck

Andy Beck serves as Director of Choral Publications at Alfred Music, where he oversees a catalog of vocal and choral resources used in schools and studios worldwide. His output spans over 450 choral compositions, arrangements, and vocal pedagogical works, many of which have become standards in rehearsal rooms. Beck holds degrees in Music Education from both Ithaca College and Northwest Missouri State University, and he remains active as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator for honor choirs and all-state ensembles across the country.

Beyond his publishing work, Beck is an accomplished tenor and musical theatre director who performs regularly with the North Carolina Master Chorale Chamber Choir. His dual commitment to both composition and music education shapes every piece he writes, whether it's a concert work or pedagogical title like Sing at First Sight or Vocalize! 45 Vocal Warm-Ups That Teach Technique. His choral music circulates globally through YouTube performances and classroom use, evidence of how thoroughly his writing serves the needs of developing singers at all levels.

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Why we love this

Beck understands what directors need: a piece that impresses audiences and works in rehearsal without consuming weeks of preparation time. The unison opening and accessible Latin/English text make this approachable for singers still building confidence, while the antiphonal treatment and three-part counterpoint section offer genuine musical substance and learning value. Programming this as a concert or contest opener signals serious musicianship without intimidating singers.

What to expect

Canticum Novum opens with bright, unified confidence before branching into rich antiphonal conversation. The shift to three-part counterpoint feels intimate and contemplative, allowing listeners to hear the individual voices weaving together before the main melody returns for a celebratory close. It feels like a piece composed by someone who knows exactly what singers can accomplish at each developmental stage.

Who it's for

Directors working with developing choirs (middle school through early high school) who need a piece that builds technique and musicianship without overwhelming singers. This works equally well for more experienced groups seeking a strong, efficient opener that combines accessibility with musical substance.

How to get the most out of it

Emphasize the marcato character in the antiphonal section by having singers shape each note with a light staccato articulation; this clarity also helps the exchange between voice parts read distinctly to the audience.
The three-part counterpoint requires careful balance and independence. Rehearse each line separately before combining, then have singers listen actively for the harmonic color created by their part's relationship to the others.
Guard the lyrical quality of the softer section by resisting the urge to slow down; maintain the same tempo while lightening the dynamic and texture for maximum contrast.
Use the sweet-spot vocal ranges Beck has written to guide your voice part assignments, particularly in the unison passage, so singers can project confidently without strain.

How to use it

Open a concert or festival performance with this piece to establish energy and musicianship immediately; its strong unison and clear harmonic language engage audiences in the first moments. Alternatively, place it near the end of a program for a celebratory closer that showcases both ensemble cohesion and individual voice development. The piece's year-round applicability makes it suitable for fall festivals, spring concerts, or any formal performance context.