Don Besig spent 31 years directing music in western New York's public schools, where his concert choirs and show choirs became known fixtures at regional clinics, competitions, and community performances. His experience spans all grade levels and settings, informing a compositional voice rooted in what actually works in the rehearsal room. He now serves as director of music at Perinton Presbyterian Church in Fairport, NY.
Besig's prolific output reflects his commitment to writing music that fits the needs of student and volunteer singers. Over 350 of his compositions and arrangements have been published by major school and church music houses, with more than 15 million copies in circulation. His work has earned him multiple ASCAP Special Awards, and his reputation as a clinician and guest conductor has taken him to festivals and workshops across 40 states and Canada.
Why we love this
Besig and Price craft sacred music that respects singers without talking down to them. This octavo balances emotional authenticity with genuine singability, so your choir can deliver a performance that feels earned rather than overwrought.
What to expect
A moment of quiet reassurance. The piece unfolds with warmth and directness, offering spiritual comfort through straightforward harmonic language and vocal writing that invites singers to focus on meaning rather than technical struggle.
Who it's for
Church choirs seeking repertoire that affirms faith without requiring advanced vocal technique. This works equally well for high school or community ensembles looking for accessible sacred music with genuine musical substance.
How to get the most out of it
Let the text drive your interpretive choices. The relationship between melody and lyric is carefully designed, so honor the natural phrasing of the words rather than imposing external musical gestures.
Balance the four parts independently during early rehearsals before blending. SATB writing only works when singers understand their individual lines as complete musical ideas.
Shape the harmonic progression with subtle dynamic contours rather than sudden changes. This piece breathes best when each phrase feels like a natural continuation of the one before it.
How to use it
Reserve this for a service where congregational connection matters as much as performance polish. It pairs naturally with other accessible sacred works in a contemporary worship setting or a community concert focused on faith and reflection.
Skills your students will build
Four-part SATB voicing independence
Singing sustained harmonic structures with accurate intonation
Text expression and emotional communication in sacred music
Breath placement and phrase shaping in congregational contexts
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