Cantimus de Amore: PartTrax Digital Audio Download

Hayes writes choral music that sits perfectly in the rehearsal space: clear part writing, singable ranges, and texts that resonate without overshadowing the musicianship. The SAB voicing paired with a recorded accompaniment means you can run this in rehearsal immediately, and the secular subject matter gives you a piece that programs well across seasons and settings.

A lyrical, approachable setting that honors the tenderness of its subject without demanding advanced vocal technique. The piece unfolds with the clarity and craftsmanship Hayes brings to all his choral work, combining singable lines with warm harmonic support.

Directors working with mixed choirs at the community, church, or high school level who need secular repertoire that is musically solid and immediately singable. Singers who are building toward a cappella independence but benefit from harmonic guidance will find the accompaniment a useful teaching tool.

• Balance the three parts by having singers listen to the other two lines during sectionals; SAB voicing often struggles when the middle voice recedes.
• Use the recorded accompaniment early in rehearsal to establish tempo and harmonic context before isolating voices.
• Shape phrases expressively by identifying the melodic arc in each section, especially important in a love text where emotional authenticity matters.
• Record a run-through with the accompaniment and play it back; singers often hear blend and intonation issues they miss in real time.

Program this as a concert centerpiece for a spring or romantic themed program, where its secular text and accessible style complement both classical and contemporary selections. It also works well as a bridging piece between more complex works in rehearsal, offering singers a moment of confidence and musical satisfaction.

• Singing in mixed three-part voicing with balanced tone across parts
• Following a recorded accompaniment while maintaining independent pitch
• Shaping and sustaining lyrical phrases with text-appropriate expression
• Listening for harmonic placement and intonation in ensemble context