Home in That Rock: SAB Choral Octavo
Music by Greg Gilpin
Item: 00-PO-0004321
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
You'll really feel the spirit in this vibrant Greg Gilpin arrangement based on a traditional spiritual. Rhythmic vocal writing, a vital swing tempo, and animated handclaps will raise the roof at your next concert. Feature your best gospel soloist on the second verse. Singers will beam, and audiences will cheer for this uplifting, rock-solid chorus. The optional SoundPax parts and SoundTrax CD are brimming with energy.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0004321
More about this title
About the Composer: Greg Gilpin
Greg Gilpin stands among the most performed choral composers and arrangers in America, with credentials that span Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and Ryman Auditorium. His work has taken him to stages across the globe, including the Sydney Opera House, Royal Festival Hall in London, and Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik. As Director of Educational Choral Publications for Shawnee Press, he shapes the repertoire available to choirs nationwide while maintaining an active conducting career.
Beyond the music world, Gilpin has expanded his professional life in unexpected directions. He holds certification as a financial coach and professional organizer, founding Maestro Organizing and earning appearances on Fox and NBC network programs. In 2021, he composed the score for the award-winning short film "Rosie's Rescue" and collaborated with opera singer Angela Brown on a new arrangement of "What Child is This?" for the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir. A member of ACDA, NAfME, SAG-AFTRA, and a Life Loyal Member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Gilpin continues to teach, compose, and conduct as the musical world rebounds.
Why we love this
Gilpin's arrangement captures everything that makes a spiritual resonate in a concert setting: infectious rhythmic energy, genuine accessibility for singers of varying abilities, and an invitation for your strongest soloist to shine. The swing tempo and handclap sections transform what could be a standard octavo into a moment your audience will remember, and SAB voicing ensures your entire choir stays engaged throughout.
What to expect
This arrangement pulses with the earthy confidence of a traditional spiritual reimagined through a contemporary lens. The rhythmic vocal writing and swing tempo create momentum and joy, while the handclaps and animated energy invite both singers and listeners into a shared moment of celebration.
Who it's for
Directors seeking a high-energy closer or showcase piece that brings genuine gospel spirit without requiring extended rehearsal time. Choirs with solid vocal fundamentals and at least one strong soloist will find this arrangement immediately gratifying and audience-friendly.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock in the swing feel during rehearsals by having the rhythm section (piano and any available percussion) establish the tempo first; the handclaps should follow the groove rather than drive it.
- Prepare your featured soloist early so they can internalize the gospel phrasing and ad-lib potential of the second verse; this isn't a moment for literal singing.
- Balance vocal parts carefully in the rhythmic passages so the arrangement's drive stays clear; SAB textures can muddy if the middle parts aren't heard distinctly.
- Use the recorded accompaniment to establish the style and energy level for your singers, especially the character of the handclaps and the implied swing articulation.
How to use it
Program this as a final number or second-to-last piece when you need your audience to leave with energy and spirit intact. It pairs well with classical or more introspective sacred work earlier in the concert, providing the perfect tonal and emotional shift.
Skills your students will build
- Swing rhythm and interpretation (triplet subdivision and laid-back phrasing)
- Gospel style conventions (call-and-response patterns, soloist ad-libbing)
- Rhythmic precision in SAB voicing with handclap coordination
- Dynamic control in energetic, repetitive material to maintain musical shape