Laudate!: 3-Part Mixed Choral Octavo

Leavitt's command of rhythm and harmonic drive shines here. The neo-Baroque idiom gives your singers a stylistic framework that feels both fresh and intellectually satisfying, while the moderate difficulty means most mid-level choirs can tackle it without simplification.

The neo-Baroque architecture creates a sense of ceremonial grandeur and architectural logic. Rhythmic vitality carries the piece forward with infectious energy, building toward moments of genuine dramatic power that feel earned rather than forced.

This octavo suits choirs at the Grade 3 level who are ready to move beyond simple homophony into more contrapuntal writing. It works equally well for high school concert choirs and community or church ensembles seeking repertoire with substance and style.

• Establish a steady, propulsive tempo from rehearsal one. The Baroque-like rhythms will feel slack if the quarter note isn't energized; this style demands constant forward momentum.
• Shape articulation syllables consistently across all three parts. Crisp consonants on text will unlock the rhythmic clarity the piece demands.
• Map the climax points with your singers and build toward them intentionally. Leavitt writes with specific structural peaks in mind; marking these in the score guides phrasing choices throughout.

This is an excellent choice for concert or festival programming where you want to showcase rhythmic precision and harmonic sophistication without overextending your singers' range or technical capacity. It pairs well on a program with either contemporary sacred works or actual Baroque motets, as it respects both the period's language and modern sensibilities.

• Baroque articulation and phrasing conventions
• Managing complex rhythmic relationships within a driving harmonic framework
• Maintaining ensemble unity across three independent lines while building dynamic intensity
• Independent part singing with attention to harmonic function