Lon Beery directs six separate choruses at Spry Middle School in Webster, New York, where he works with approximately 500 students across all levels. His catalog includes over 50 published compositions and arrangements distributed through Alfred Music, BriLee, and other major publishers, and his work has earned him multiple ASCAP Standard Awards.
Beyond the classroom, Beery has established himself as a thought leader in choral education. His TTBB composition I Believe was performed by the U.S. Army Chorus at President Ronald Reagan's internment service in California. He regularly contributes articles to the Choral Journal and Music Educators Journal, presents at state, regional, and national conferences for ACDA and MENC, and currently serves as the Middle School Chair for New York ACDA.
Why we love this
Beery knows what works in the middle school choir room, and this arrangement proves it. The 2-part voicing removes technical barriers without sacrificing musicality, allowing singers to focus on the spiritual warmth of this beloved text. Directors will appreciate how cleanly it sits for developing voices.
What to expect
A gentle, affirming moment. The Hebrew text carries timeless warmth, and Beery's treatment lets it shine without getting in the way. Singers will find themselves in a reflective space where the simplicity of the voicing actually deepens the emotional impact.
Who it's for
This arrangement serves middle school choirs and smaller high school ensembles seeking a sacred piece that sits comfortably in developing ranges. It works equally well for concert programs or worship settings where accessibility and spiritual resonance matter more than complexity.
How to get the most out of it
Emphasize the legato line from phrase to phrase; this melody survives on connection rather than individual note clarity.
Balance the parts so neither dominates; the beauty emerges when both voices blend as equal partners.
Let the text breathe naturally at phrase endings instead of pushing through to the next entrance.
How to use it
Place this on a sacred music concert where it can anchor a set of shorter choral works, or program it in a spring concert as a reflective contrast to more energetic pieces. Its 10-page length makes it ideal for ensembles building stamina with accessible repertoire.
Skills your students will build
Singing in Hebrew or transliterated Hebrew text
Blending two independent vocal lines with equal prominence
Sustained legit singing across phrases without forcing projection
Responding to text-driven interpretation and phrasing
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