Hodie: SAB Choral Octavo

Waggoner crafts genuine contrast within a compact package. The Renaissance fanfare framing gives this piece architectural clarity, while the harmonic shifts and metric interplay in the middle section keep singers engaged without overwhelming them. For SAB groups seeking Christmas repertoire that feels substantial yet rehearses efficiently, this strikes the balance.

Jubilant and ceremonial, opening with the grandeur of a Renaissance trumpet call before unfolding into rich harmonic warmth. The shifting keys and changing tempi create a sense of musical dialogue and discovery, never settling into predictability. It closes as it began, framing the journey with conviction.

SAB choirs and mixed ensembles seeking accessible yet musically thoughtful Christmas literature. This work suits intermediate to advancing high school or community choirs with basic harmonic literacy. The straightforward SAB voicing makes it approachable for singers still developing part independence.

• Define the opening fanfare with crisp articulation and clear voice part independence; let the brass-like character shine before the texture softens.
• Balance the scattered duple eighth notes against the compound meter without rushing; think of them as ornamental rather than structural.
• Mark the key and mode shifts as deliberate harmonic destinations, not accidents; slight expressive shaping through these moments deepens the contrast.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to establish the changing tempi and lock the harmonic framework while voices refine blend.

Position this as the centerpiece of a Christmas program that pairs Latin and English sacred texts. Its brief length and festive character make it ideal for a concert opening or closing statement. The harmonic sophistication allows it to stand alongside more complex works while remaining accessible to developing ensembles.

• Reading SAB voicing and maintaining independent part lines in three-part texture
• Navigating duple rhythms within compound meter
• Recognizing and executing key changes and modal shifts
• Responding to tempo and expressive changes within a single piece