Follow That Star: SAB Choral Octavo

Althouse achieves genuine sophistication here without overcomplicating the vocal writing. The modal harmonies and open intervals sound far more ambitious than they are to learn and sing, making it an intelligent choice when you want your choir to sound expanded and festive without requiring months of rehearsal. The optional SoundPax accompaniment provides flexibility: use it to help lock the piece together during early rehearsals, or perform unaccompanied once the parts are solid.

Glorious and unhurried, with a processional dignity that modal harmonies and spacious intervals naturally provide. The sound is contemporary yet rooted in sacred tradition, creating an impression of celebration without heaviness.

Choirs of mixed ability will find this accessible and rewarding. The three-part SAB voicing accommodates singers who aren't reading advanced ranges or complex harmonic language, yet the writing itself is dignified enough for experienced choirs looking for a strong processional option.

• Emphasize the open intervals to let them ring; resist the urge to fill harmonic space with vibrato or thickness. These gaps are intentional and create the stately effect Althouse designed.
• If using the recorded accompaniment, rehearse with it from the start so singers internalize the harmonic framework, then gradually reduce reliance on the track as confidence builds.
• Shape the line with subtle dynamic contours that follow the text and melodic arc rather than hitting forte and backing off abruptly. Processionals benefit from sustained, gentle momentum.

Program this as the opening processional for your holiday concert or as a liturgical piece in a Christmas Eve service. Its stately pace and manageable difficulty make it an excellent anchor piece that allows your choir to establish a confident, reverent mood before moving into more elaborate repertoire.

• Reading and singing modal melodies with clear harmonic centers
• Sustaining open intervals and managing blend across a three-part texture
• Phrasing processional-style music with long-line thinking rather than phrase-to-phrase articulation
• Balancing part independence in a treble-alto-bass configuration