Lift Every Voice and Sing: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

$46.00 USD

Lift Every Voice and Sing: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Lift Every Voice and Sing: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-44827
Price: 46.00 USD
Availability: OutOfStock

Often Referred to as the "African-American National Anthem"

Music by J. Rosamond Johnson, words by James Weldon Johnson / arr. Bob Phillips

Grade: 2.5

Item: 00-44827

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The poem and original hymn-like music of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," by James and J. Rosamond Johnson, reverberate through the decades of the civil rights movement. Originally performed for Booker T. Washington in 1900, it is sometimes called the "African-American National Anthem." This setting, by Bob Phillips, teaches 6/8 and uses chromatic alterations in first position. A vocal lead sheet is included in the reproducible educational packets. The cross-curricular programming possibilities are vast. (2:40)

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Series: Sound Innovations for String Orchestra

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 80

UPC: 038081518169

SKU: 00-44827

More about this title

About the Composer: J. Rosamond Johnson

J. Rosamond Johnson (1873-1954) was a composer, pianist, and performer who shaped American musical life at the turn of the 20th century. Alongside his brother James Weldon Johnson, he created "Lift Every Voice and Sing" in 1900, a work that transcended its original context to become a cornerstone of African-American cultural identity and civil rights expression.

Johnson's contributions extended far beyond this single work. He composed operettas, songs, and instrumental pieces while maintaining an active career as a performer and teacher. His ability to blend musical sophistication with accessibility made his work enduring; "Lift Every Voice and Sing" remains as powerful and relevant today as when it was first performed for Booker T. Washington a century ago.

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Why we love this

This arrangement honors the original melody and emotional weight of the piece while introducing string players to practical musical concepts they'll encounter throughout their studies. Bob Phillips's Grade 2.5 setting doesn't simplify the song's dignity; instead, it opens the door to 6/8 meter and chromatic voice leading in ways that feel organic to the music itself, making this as much a teaching moment as a performance opportunity.

What to expect

The arrangement unfolds with quiet determination and gathering strength, much like the original hymn-like character of the piece. The 6/8 meter creates a lilting, processional quality while chromatic coloring adds emotional complexity, making this feel both historically grounded and contemporary.

Who it's for

String orchestras at the intermediate level who are ready to tackle both rhythmic and intonational challenges within an accessible framework. This works equally well for concert programming and cross-curricular presentations pairing music with history, literature, or social studies.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the vocal lead line prominently in the soprano voice, particularly through the opening statement. The strings must support rather than overwhelm the melody so the text carries its full weight.
Shape the phrasing across the longer 6/8 measures to avoid rhythmic choppiness. Think in larger arcs; the natural momentum of 6/8 helps, but conductor clarity matters here.
Pay attention to the chromatic alterations marked in first position. These pitches are often the heart of the harmonic movement, so intonation in these spots will determine whether the arrangement sings or stays earthbound.
Allow silence and breath points to breathe. This piece benefits from a measured, contemplative pace rather than a rushed one, giving the text and meaning room to land.

How to use it

Program this as a centerpiece of a concert exploring American music and civil rights history, or pair it with complementary repertoire that speaks to themes of justice and unity. The included vocal lead sheet opens possibilities for collaboration with choir, creating a powerful combined performance that transcends genre boundaries.

Skills your students will build

Reading and executing 6/8 meter with proper rhythmic feel
Playing chromatic alterations in first position with secure intonation
Balancing harmonic support while maintaining awareness of a prominent vocal line
Understanding historical context and emotional intention as interpretive tools