Patti Drennan shaped choral music in Oklahoma public schools for 28 years, first at West Mid-High School where she earned Teacher of the Year, then at Norman High School directing four choirs to consistent superior ratings. Her work earned recognition as Director of Distinction from the Oklahoma Choral Directors Association in 2004.
With over 425 published octavos and two million copies in circulation, Drennan has established herself as one of today's most prolific choral composers. Since retiring from classroom teaching, she has clinicked in 19 states plus Canada, adjudicated contests across the region, and led composer weekends for churches nationwide. She continues composing, arranging, and performing, including collaborative work with her daughter in symphonic and musical theater settings.
Why we love this
Drennan brings her three decades of classroom experience directly to this piece, understanding what SATB singers need musically and what directors need logistically. The text carries genuine spiritual weight without demanding virtuosity, making it accessible for volunteer church choirs and high school singers alike. This is the work of someone who has stood in front of your ensemble and knows exactly what will resonate.
What to expect
The piece carries a quiet confidence in its harmonic language, never straining for dramatic effect but maintaining warmth throughout. There's a reassuring quality in Drennan's voice leading that mirrors the text's promise of constancy.
Who it's for
This octavo works for church choirs seeking repertoire with spiritual substance and SATB high school ensembles looking for concert material that connects text and music meaningfully. Singers at any experience level will find the vocal writing grateful and the message accessible.
How to get the most out of it
Attend to the balance between parts in sections where the text divides; Drennan's voice leading often places the melodic interest away from the soprano line, so resist the instinct to pull soprano volume forward.
Establish the harmonic progression early in rehearsal so singers understand how each chord functions within the larger phrase arc rather than treating measures as isolated moments.
Let the underlying text shape your phrasing choices. Where does the reassurance in the title settle into the singers' understanding of the message?
How to use it
Consider placing this as the closing selection on a mixed concert program, allowing it to send singers and audience into reflection. It also serves as an effective opening for a service of music in a worship setting, establishing both spiritual intention and accessibility for congregational participation.
Skills your students will build
Part independence in four-part texture
Shaping longer phrases through harmonic change
Balancing vocal lines where melody and countermelody rotate among parts
Connecting text to harmonic function for interpretive singing
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
