Gloria Allelu: SATB Choral Octavo

The rhythmic unpredictability here energizes singers without overwhelming them. Althouse keeps the five-four shifts confined to the accompaniment, letting singers focus on the modern harmonic language and dynamic contrasts that give the piece its contemporary urgency. Add the optional percussion parts, and you have a work that sounds genuinely current while remaining accessible to developing choirs.

Gloria Allelu pulses with kinetic energy. The modern harmonies create mild dissonance that feels intentional and purposeful rather than awkward, while the dynamic swings and rhythmic drive give the piece an almost restless character. Despite the complexity, it remains singable and rewarding.

SATB choirs with secure rhythm readers and willingness to embrace contemporary harmonic language. This works equally well for high school, college, and community ensembles seeking repertoire with a modern edge.

• Mark the dynamic shifts clearly in rehearsal; the vast contrast between sections will feel awkward until singers trust the printed dynamics and commit fully to each dynamic level.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to lock the ensemble's sense of pulse, especially through the meter changes that affect only the piano part.
• Shape phrases around the rhythmic intensity rather than traditional melodic arcs; this piece rewards attacks and releases that match the angular harmony.

Pair this with more traditional sacred music to demonstrate choral evolution, or program it as the opener to a contemporary-focused concert where the rhythmic intensity sets the tone. Its eight pages make it compact enough for a smaller festival or church service that values current compositional approaches.

• Reading dynamic contrasts and executing them expressively
• Maintaining ensemble rhythm while accompanist navigates meter changes
• Singing modern, tertian-based harmonies with confidence
• Responding to rhythmic intensity and syncopation in sacred context